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Language skills
required, minimum level of B2
Programme length
Full time study for three academic years, 180 ECTS.
Study mode
Face-to-face learning
Application status
International students:
Students with Icelandic or Nordic citizenship:
Overview

  • Do you want a demanding, engaging and rewarding career?
  • Would you want to work closely with pregnant women?
  • Are you interested in care, education, advice and prevention?
  • Do you want to support the families of new mothers, during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period?
  • Does a varied career supporting new parents appeal to you?

The three year Candidate's programme in medicine combines foundational subjects (BS) and clinical training. The majority of the programme is focused on clinical training.

Students are given opportunities to take part in research and development projects of their choice. Students receive training that equips them to take on ever increasing levels of responsibility and independent decision making under the guidance of medical specialists.

Emphasis is placed on multidisciplinary cooperation, teamwork, management, professionalism and ethics.

Programme structure

The programme is 180 ECTS and is organised as three years of full-time study.

The programme is made up of:

First year:

  • Pharmacology and surgery
  • Medical imaging
  • Pathology
  • Otorhinolaryngology

Second year:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Paediatrics
  • Medical genetics
  • Gynaecology and obstetrics
  • Psychiatry
  • Dermatology and sexually transmitted diseases
  • Neurology

Third year:

  • Preventative medicine
  • IT in health sciences
  • Forensic medicine
  • Clinical toxicology
  • Rehabilitation
  • Emergency medicine
  • Management and quality issues
  • Oncology
  • Anaesthesia
  • General practice medicine
  • Medication prescriptions, medical incident reports and electronic medical records

Students must pass all examinations each year before progressing to the next year.

Organisation of teaching

This programme is taught in Icelandic and most textbooks are in English.

Practical teaching / clinical training takes place within hospital departments and health clinics, but students also attend lectures, discussion periods, and are taught to perform examinations.

Full attendance is mandatory for clinical courses and students are also required to work evening and weekend shifts.

Main objectives

After graduating, students will be familiar with the most up-to-date medical knowledge. They will have adopted a professional attitude towards their work and patients. They will have acquired the skills needed to apply their knowledge in the best interests of their patients.

Students will receive systematic guidance and monitoring to equip them for further study and training as doctors and/or researchers.

Completing this programme, followed by a year as a medical intern, allows you to apply for various specialist medical programmes as well as other graduate programmes, i.e. Master’s or doctoral programmes.

Other

Completing a Candidate's degree in medicine qualifies you to work as a medical intern. To be eligible for a medical licence, medical interns must complete 12 months of vocational training. The professional licence is issued by the Directorate of Health.

Completing the programme allows a student to study a medical specialism or pursue other Master’s or doctoral programmes.

BS degree in Medicine from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland.

The programme consists of a total of 120 ECTS credits, thereof 65 ECTS in theoretical courses,  including a final dissertation of 30 ECTS. Students must complete 55 ECTS of clinical training (1600 hours). Along with theoretical courses the programme focuses on evidence-based knowledge; clinical projects, oral and written exams. Clinical training takes place in hospitals, health care centers, in a birth clinic and women´s home.

During the second year of studies, the students write their dissertation, where the aim is to enhance students´ knowledge of specialities within the field of Midwifery.

The mission of the medical programme

To provide Icelandic society with physicians who deliver high quality healthcare nationally and internationally through excellent education and innovative research.The medical programme educates exemplary physicians who collaborate to practice science based and socially responsible medicine.

The vision of the medical programme

The medical programme at the UI aims to become an example to other medical schools while also positively impacting the health and well being of Icelandic society through its education and research.

Programme structure

Check below to see how the programme is structured.

This programme does not offer specialisations.

First year | Whole year courses
Internal Medicine, theoretical (LÆK202F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
13 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course in internal medicine is divided into two parts: a clinical part and a theoretical part, which are integrated both in content and timing. There will be two exams in internal medicine: a written exam and a clinical station exam. 

 

Teaching in the theoretical part of the course consists of lectures according to the lecture schedule, discussion sessions related to the practical part of the course, and reading textbooks and journal articles in internal medicine. The main diseases covered by internal medicine and its subspecialties are discussed, with an emphasis on their prevalence, causes, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, disease course, diagnosis, and treatment. 

 

The directors of the different subspecialities of internal medicine, that is hematology, endocrinology, rheumatology, cardiology, oncology, gastroenterology, nephrology, allergy and immunology, infectious diseases, pulmonary diseases and gerontology, have written study aims that include topics that the students should have good knowledge of (I) and also topics they should have moderate knowledge of (II). 

 

The head of internal medicine is Einar Stefán Björnsson. The supervision of the program at Akureyri Hospital is managed by Associate Professor Gunnar Þór Gunnarsson. 

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
First year | Whole year courses
Internal Medicine, Clinical (LÆK203F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
13 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Clinical examination in medicine, analysis of clinical information, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, treatment plan, and follow-up are emphasized. Students write a minimum number of case histories under the supervision of a physician. They take turns being on call. There are daily tutorials and clinical rounds. Full attendance is mandatory. Students follow their patients closely and discuss their work-up and treatment with their attending physician. In the 4th year lectures an emphasis is placed on common diseases and management problems.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
First year | Whole year courses
Surgery, theoretical (LÆK204F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
13 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Not available yet.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
First year | Whole year courses
Surgery, clinical (LÆK205F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
13 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The practical education in general  surgery is based on clinical courses which are run simultaneously as the lectures in the two major hospitals in Reykjavík and in Akureyri. The students participate in the daily work of the departments and attend clinical conferences, rounds and other teaching activities. Clinical cases are presented and discussed individually on ward rounds and grand rounds. Full attendance is compulsory. Examination is according to ESCA at the end of each course in January and in May. The final score is calculated as 75% from the ESCA examination and 25% from the students "book-keeping". Students must pass both parts of the course.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
First year | Whole year courses
Otorhinolaryngology (LÆK206F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
3 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nose, throat, head and neck. Introduction of ear examination, classification of hearing disorders, diseases of external ear, eustachian tube and middle ear. Acute chronic otitis media, mastoiditis, otosclerosis, hearing rehabilitation, hearing aids, tinnitus, vertigo, vestibular tests and diseases of inner ear. Diseases of salivary glands and oral diseases, facial paralysis, facial trauma, anatomy and function of the nose. Diagnosis of nasal disorders, rhinomanometry, allergic disorders of the nose and nasal cavity. Chronic nasal obstruction, sinusitis, epistaxis, diseases of the nasopharynx, pharynx and oesophagus. Function of the larynx, hoarseness, inflammations, laryngeal paralysis and carcinoma of hypopharynx and larynx, laser surgery, head and neck cancer, diagnosis of lump in the neck, surgery of the head and neck.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
First year | Whole year courses
Diagnostic Imaging - Radiology (LÆK207F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
3 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The physics of radiation, radiation protection, general concepts of medical imaging, imaging methods (x-rays, computed tomography, resonance, isotope studies and magnetic resonance imaging) and the use of contrast material will be discussed. General definitions in clinical radiology and radiological examination of the various organ systems are studied, as well as contrast media and contrast examination. Radiology of the nervous system, chest and abdomen, musculoskeletal system and vessels will be explored. Attention will also be paid to interventional radiology. 

Practicals are undertaken at the department of Radiology in the National University Hospital and in Orkuhúsið.  

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
First year | Whole year courses
Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness IV (LÆK208F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
0 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme. The focus will be on communicational tools like the SBAR that contribute to patient saftey and efficiancy of teamwork. The course will be conducted over one day and will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Course taught second half of the semester
First year | Fall
Clinical Biochemistry (LÆK105F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Basic applications of chemical, molecular and cellular concepts and techniques to the understanding and evaluation of human health and desease.

Lectures: General principles and practice of clinical biochemistry as well as specific diseases and organ systems. Practical aspects regarding appropriate use of the clinical laboratory in medicine. Frontiers in molecular medicine. Problem-based learning. Visit to a clinical laboratory in the 2nd year of medical studies.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Course taught first half of the semester
Second year | Whole year courses
Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness V (LÆK408F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
0 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme and LÆK107F in the forth year of the Medical Education programme. The focus will be on improving communicational skills in subjects regarding the doctor patient relationship regarding the main courses taught in the fifth year of Medical studies. The course will be conducted over one day or as several shorter teaching sessions all pending how this will best fit in to the teaching programme. The teaching will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Fall
Obstetrics and Gynaecology (LÆK301F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
12 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Teaching in obstetrics and gynecology mostly takes place at the Women's Department of Landspítali – the University Hospital of Iceland. The teaching consists of practical training and varied lessons: lectures, case studies, skills training, simulations, discussion sessions and project work. Medical students accompany doctors and midwives in the department in their daily work and are introduced to specialized care in our field, e.g. antenatal care, maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive medicine and cancer screening. The course is taught over 7 weeks for a quarter of 5th year medical students at a time.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Fall
Pediatrics (LÆK302F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
12 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Medical students are divided into 4 groups for the practical training and participate in clinical work at the Children's Hospital at the University Hospital. Lectures are given in pediatrics in each term. The aim of the course is to make the medical student able to obtain medical history and carry out physical examination. Furthermore, the students will learn to lay out medical workup and give suggestions regarding therapy. The aim of the theoretical part of the course is to give the student a sound knowledge of pediatrics. Further information can be found on the Children's Hospital homepage.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Fall
Medical Genetics (LÆK303F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The aim of the course is for the students to gain insight into methods of molecular and genomic medicine. The main emphasis is on the practical aspects of clinical genetics, genetic diseases, congenital disorders, and genetics of common traits. Lectures and problem based learning methods are applied in the teaching. This includes structure and functions of genes. Gene mapping and bioinformatics. Biochemical and genetic basis of chosen genetic disorders. Chromosomes and chromosome disorders. Various stages of screening, including prenatal, biochemical, phenotype and population based programs for genetic disorders. Basic principles of multi factorial and polygenic traits, with emphasis on congenital abnormalities and selected common traits including cardiovascular disorders and cancer. Special interest will be paid to genetic disorders and genomic research in Iceland. Use of genomic and clinical databases as a tool in molecular medicine and medical genetics. Treatment options for genetic disorders and molecular genomic manipulation in rare and common disorders. Clinical genetic counselling approaches, and ethical, social and family implication will be given consideration.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Course taught first half of the semester
Second year | Fall
Psychiatry (LÆK304F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
14 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The objective of the course is to teach students about psychiatric diseases, their prevalence, etiology, course, prognosis, treatment and prevention. The teaching is provided in the form of lectures, seminars, problem-based learning and practical training at the Departments of Psychiatry of the National University Hospital as described in a detailed curriculum presented to students at the beginning of the course.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Fall
Neurology (LÆK305F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Lectures on the principal symtoms and categories of neurological diseases. Clinical rotations: Four weeks clinical rotation Neurology Departments at the National University Hospital. Practical examinations are held at the end of the clinical rotation.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Fall
Ophthalmology (LÆK306F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course covers basic ophthalmology. Lectures are on the following: Anatomy and physiology of the eye; history and examination; optics, refractive disorders and glasses; ocular trauma; retinal diseases; strabismus and children's eye diseases; lens and cataracts; the eye and diseases in other parts of the body; eyelids and orbita; age-related macular degeneration; glaucoma; neuro-ophthalmology; diabetic retinopathy; blepharitis; conjunctivitis; red eye (diff. diagnosis and treatment); corneal diseases.

Each student spends about one obligatory week at the department of ophthalmology, Eiríksgata 37.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Spring 1
Obstetrics and Gynaecology (LÆK401F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
12 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Teaching in obstetrics and gynecology mostly takes place at the Women's Department of Landspítali – the University Hospital of Iceland. The teaching consists of practical training and varied lessons: lectures, case studies, skills training, simulations, discussion sessions and project work. Medical students accompany doctors and midwives in the department in their daily work and are introduced to specialized care in our field, e.g. antenatal care, maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive medicine and cancer screening. The course is taught over 7 weeks for a quarter of 5th year medical students at a time.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Spring 1
Pediatrics (LÆK402F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
12 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Medical students are divided into 4 groups for the practical training and participate in clinical work at the Children's Hospital at the University Hospital. Lectures are given in pediatrics in each term. The aim of the course is to make the medical student able to obtain medical history and carry out physical examination. Furthermore, the students will learn to lay out medical workup and give suggestions regarding therapy. The aim of the theoretical part of the course is to give the student a sound knowledge of pediatrics. Further information can be found on the Children's Hospital homepage.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Spring 1
Medical Genetics (LÆK403F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The aim of the course is for the students to gain insight into methods of molecular and genomic medicine. The main emphasis is on the practical aspects of clinical genetics, genetic diseases, congenital disorders, and genetics of common traits. Lectures and problem based learning methods are applied in the teaching. This includes structure and functions of genes. Gene mapping and bioinformatics. Biochemical and genetic basis of chosen genetic disorders. Chromosomes and chromosome disorders. Various stages of screening, including prenatal, biochemical, phenotype and population based programs for genetic disorders. Basic principles of multi factorial and polygenic traits, with emphasis on congenital abnormalities and selected common traits including cardiovascular disorders and cancer. Special interest will be paid to genetic disorders and genomic research in Iceland. Use of genomic and clinical databases as a tool in molecular medicine and medical genetics. Treatment options for genetic disorders and molecular genomic manipulation in rare and common disorders. Clinical genetic counselling approaches, and ethical, social and family implication will be given consideration.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Course taught first half of the semester
Second year | Spring 1
Psychiatry (LÆK404F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
14 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The objective of the course is to teach students about psychiatric diseases, their prevalence, etiology, course, prognosis, treatment and prevention. The teaching is provided in the form of lectures, seminars, problem-based learning and practical training at the Departments of Psychiatry of the National University Hospital as described in a detailed curriculum presented to students at the beginning of the course.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Spring 1
Neurology (LÆK405F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Lectures on the principal symtoms and categories of neurological diseases. Clinical rotations: Four weeks clinical rotation Neurology Departments at the National University Hospital. Practical examinations are held at the end of the clinical rotation.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Spring 1
Ophthalmology (LÆK406F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course covers basic ophthalmology. Lectures are on the following: Anatomy and physiology of the eye; history and examination; optics, refractive disorders and glasses; ocular trauma; retinal diseases; strabismus and children's eye diseases; lens and cataracts; the eye and diseases in other parts of the body; eyelids and orbita; age-related macular degeneration; glaucoma; neuro-ophthalmology; diabetic retinopathy; blepharitis; conjunctivitis; red eye (diff. diagnosis and treatment); corneal diseases.

Each student spends about one obligatory week at the department of ophthalmology, Eiríksgata 37.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Second year | Spring 1
Dermatology and sexually transmitted diseases (LÆK407F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Structure and function of the skin. Pathology of the most common skin diseases. Most common topical drugs and their usage. Most common venereal diseases will be covered. All student should attend practical sessions where patients will be demonstrated.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Course taught first half of the semester
Third year | Whole year courses
Introduction to Clinical medicine/communicational skills VI (LÆK621F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
1 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme, LÆK208F in the forth year and LÆK408F in the fifth year of the Medical Education programme. The focus will be on improving communicational skills in subjects regarding the doctor patient relationship when conducting a family meeting or having to deliver bad news. The course will be conducted over one day or as several shorter teaching sessions all pending how this will best fit in to the teaching programme.The teaching will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Whole year courses
Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective (LÆK623F)
Free elective course within the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course was initiated by Faculty leaders in the Education Working Group of Nordic Medical Schools and received funding from the Joint Committee of the Nordic Medical Research Councils ((https://nos-m.org/ ). 33 experts from all the Nordic countries participate in the course, that is led by Saedis Saevarsdottir from the University of Iceland and Sisse Ostrowski from the University of Copenhagen.

The technical revolution has generated large amounts of data in healthcare and research, and a rapidly increasing knowledge about factors of importance for the individual’s health. This holds great potential to support a change from the one-size-fits-all paradigm to personalised or precision medicine, to guide and thereby improve each health decision of expected benefit for the patient. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has contributed to a great public and political awareness of the importance of personalised medicine, where the influence of host factors like age, sex, obesity, smoking, co-morbidities etc. confer increased risk of serious COVID-19 illness. It is expected that in the near future, a more systematic and data-driven approach for prediction and risk stratification of COVID-19 patients and many other patient groups, will increase and improve due to better understanding of disease pathology, including the influence of genetic variability and biomarkers on disease risk and outcome. The Nordic countries have unique welfare systems with general access to healthcare, and longitudinal nationwide health databases and biobanks. This infrastructure combined with unique person identifiers creates an optimal setting for personalised medicine development, and the Nordic model of research, translation, care and education can serve as a forefront example for the rest of the world.

The course in Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective will introduce, describe, define and discuss the concept of personalised medicine from the aspect of the patient, health-care and the infrastructure available to generate a learning environment that is integrated with everyday care of patients. The course also covers communication of risk and the ethical, legal and social aspects of personalised medicine and presents examples where personalised medicine approach is already used in routine care.

Module 1 (5 videos, 6 readings) introduces the concept and methods of personalised medicine, including terminology and definitions, with emphasis on how the infrastructure of the Nordic countries facilitates developing and implementing personalised medicine in collaboration. Examples of applied personalised medicine in the Nordic countries and unmet needs in common diseases, where personalised medicine can be the way forward, will be described and discussed.

Module 2 (6 videos, 8 readings) describes what kind of information is useful to tailor the care of individuals, with focus on the potential of health data that is already collected, and the benefits of using such “real-life” data compared to clinical guidelines based on evidence from randomised clinical trials, but also the importance for data “cleaning” to increase the usefulness of such data. Data analysis is key to unfold the potential of collected health data and the module introduces data science as a tool to apply data-driven clinical decision making and thus personalised medicine.

Module 3 (5 videos, 3 readings) describes definitions and identification of biomarkers and how these can be applied in precision medicine, as this part of personalised medicine is often referred to today. Genetics have a fundamental role in personalised medicine, and the students are expected to have a basic understanding of terminology, definitions and methodology, while the focus here is on its use and potential in personalised medicine (other courses can be taken to gain that knowledge basis if needed). A similar approach is taken for the rapidly developing field of ‘omics’ (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics etc), since this field could well fill up a course on its own. Thus, the module describes analyses and interpretation of biomarker, genetic and omics data and their implications for care. In addition it describes how open data sources are used for analyses and interpretation of such data.

Module 4 (4 videos, 4 readings) describes what “evidence” is and the challenges and opportunities and shift in the paradigm that data-driven personalised medicine has introduced. Furthermore, evidence-based medicine including different trial designs and novel trial designs will be described and discussed. The challenge for personalised medicine and novel trial designs to generate good enough evidence for clinical implementation is discussed from a clinical and legal perspective. Finally, the innovation pipeline from research to clinical practice is also described and discussed.

Module 5 (5 videos, 7 readings) introduces, describes and discusses risk – a cornerstone in personalised medicine. How is risk calculated, communicated, inferred and interpreted? Furthermore, patient-centered care – a complement to personalised medicine – and the pro’s and con’s of screening for diseases will be described and discussed.Finally, the role of the media for the hype and horror sometimes introduced by novel healthcare technologies will be discussed.

Module 6 (6 videos, 3 readings) discusses in more detail the ethical and social aspects of personalised medicine in research, clinic and society as well as its impact on health economy and prioritisation. The legislation and regulation of personalised medicine in the Nordic countries will be described and discussed. Furthermore, the industry interest in and collaboration on health data and biologic material will be described and discussed focusing on challenges, possibilities and perspectives. Finally, the module concludes on future perspectives for personalised medicine in the Nordic countries.

For a more detailed description, see www.coursera.org Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Online learning
Self-study
Third year | Fall
Preventive Medicine (LÆK501F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Inheritance together with various environmental and lifestyle factors affect variations of health and well-being in the general population. Health professionals are, due to their knowledge and access to patients, in a unique position to excercise health promotion and prevention in their clinical work. This course gives an overview of the opportunities and methods that medical professionals can use for prevention and health promotion in our society. The aim is to provide the coming generations of physicians knowledge of evidence based methods for health promotion. Students will get training in reviewing the literature of the various avenues of health promotion and prevention.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Course taught first half of the semester
Third year | Fall
Clinical toxicology (LÆK504F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
1 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is designed to give the students an overview of common poisonings presenting to hospitals and health care institutes and their treatment.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Third year | Fall
Rehabilitation (LÆK505F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Restoring the functional abilities of patients with short- or longterm disabilities and handicaps following accidents, diseases and congenital defects.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Fall
Management and quality issues (LÆK507F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Two weeks of specialised teaching as a final emphasis dealing with certain practical problems, problem solving and a course medical practice in general.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Third year | Fall
Cancer epidemiology, diagnosis and clinical management (LÆK508F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Lectures: Individual diseases are not covered in lectures. The focus is on a general approach and the theoretical background of oncology.

Problem based learning: Students are divided into groups, read through a case and lead discussion. Students then choose one topic that they study and report to the group the following day.

Interview techniques: Eight to ten students are in each group, and the interviews last 4-5 hours. The course is conducted in such a way that each medical student is given a role both as a physician and as a patient or a relative of a patient. Problems such as informing a patient that they have cancer, discussing palliative approaches and giving bad news are addressed. All interviews are recorded and then discussed collectively in a constructive way.

Clinical training: Medical students attend the outpatient clinics of hematology and oncology and become familiar with the outpatient work with a specialist in hematology or oncology.  Each student will also go to the Hospice ward and the radiotherapy department.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Fall
Forensic Medicine (LÆK511F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The theory and practice of forensic medicine.

Major themes: a) The death of humans b) Assaults and violence c) Suicide and accidental deaths d) Medicine and the law.

Topics:

  • Introduction to forensic medicine
  • Death and post mortem changes
  • The medical death investigation
  • Writing the death certificate
  • Autopsy and other methods in forensic medicine
  • Deaths by natural causes
  • Sudden unexpected death in children
  • Identification
  • Blunt force trauma
  • Sharp force trauma
  • Head injuries
  • Application of force to the neck
  • Alcohol, drugs and death
  • Traffic accidents and other high energy trauma
  • Gunshot injuries
  • Clinical forensic medicine
  • Documentation, interpretation and timing of injury
  • Asphyxia
  • Traumatology of the neck
  • Hypo- and hyperthermia
  • Drowning
  • Heat inuries and carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Electrical injuries
  • Scene investigation and examination of the dead body
  • Illustrative cases
Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Course taught first half of the semester
Third year | Fall
Emergency Medicine (LÆK512F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
5 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Duration - 4 weeks.  

In the 6th year the course in Emergency medicine is divided into two sections, two weeks each.  

The earlier 2 week period consists of lectures and simulation training on the following topics: 

  • Lecture day on violence –  
  • identifying victims, documentation of injuries and providing an overview of available care and support for victims of violence  
  • 2 day course in advanced life support – ALS cource acccording to the ERC standard.  
  • 1 day course in basic airway management  
  • 1 day of mixed simulated cases 
  • Emergency Ultrasound - e-cource and one half day of hands-on training 

The later 2 weeks consist of clinical training in the Emergency Department where medical students are trained in working up and treating  patients under the supervision and guidance of consultants and senior EM trainees.  

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Fall
Anaesthesia and Intensive Care (LÆK513F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
5 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course in anesthesiology and intensive care is taught in the sixth year and contains a theoretical and clinical part. The goal of the course is that medical students receive solid knowledge in anesthesiology and intensive care.

The goal of the clinical part is that medical students get experience in evaluating and preparing patients undergoing elective or urgent surgery and treating surgical patients and critically ill intensive care patients. The students will also gain experience in suggesting evaluation and plan treatment of these patients.

Theoretical teaching:

  1. A week of lectures in September. The lectures will cover the basics of anesthesia and intensive care.
  2. Electronical lectures supporting Very BASIC book. Please see below for details on the Very BASIC course

Clinical teaching:

  1. The students will spend two weeks at the department of anesthesia and intensive care, and will be assigned a daily task, either in the intensive care ward, operating theatre or preoperative center.
  2. The main this is on the basics of anesthesia and intensive care
    1. Clinical examination and evaluation of patients undergoing surgery.
    2. Training in maintaining airway patency using a bag-mask ventilation/oral airway, using laryngeal mask airway and finally the students should observe and attempt intubation, although that procedure is outside of the scope of the course.
    3. Evaluation of fluid balance and blood loss during and following surgical procedures and pain management after surgery.
    4. Evaluation and treatment critically ill and injured patients in the intensive care unit
    5. The following skills stations will be held
      1. Airway training
      2. Non-invasive and invasive ventilation
  • Resuscitation
  1. Students will follow one patient in the intensive care unit, they are instructed to choose an individual with a focused problem, or select a portion of the course of a critically ill patient.
  2. There is a 100% attendance requirement. Students who miss out a day should contact the professor to schedule how they can fulfill their attendance requirement.
  3. Students will take two calls, where they continue to work with the on call team from 15:30 - 22:00
  4. Syndrome maintain a log book during the clinical course

The clinical teaching occurs in:

Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús, Hringbraut: Martin Ingi Sigurðsson, professor, Sigurbergur Kárason assistant professor/chief physician og Theódór Skúli Sigurðsson consultant.

Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús,í Fossvogi: Katrín Þormar consultant, Ólöf Viktorsdóttir chief physician og Jóhanna Sigurjónsdóttir consultant.

Sjúkrahús Akraness: Björn Gunnarsson chief physician.

Sjúkrahúsið á Akureyri: umsjón Oddur Ólafsson, chief physician. 

All consulting physicians at Landspitali and Akureyri hospital will participate in theoretical and clinical teaching of medical students. Resident physicians in training also participate in teaching.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Fall
Family Medicine (LÆK514F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
9 ECTS, credits
Course Description

95% of the problems which people seek for within in the health care sector can be solved within primary care. Most of these problems are rarely seen or presented in the hospital setting. 

Primary health care therefore relies on its own knowledge base, skills, attitudes, human resources and work facilities in order to carry out its tasks. 

The most common health problems and other health care topics and work methods are discussed. The basics of clinical examination, problem-based medical history, clinical skills and attitudes in diagnosis and problem solving, health care work and teamwork will be taught. Students talk to and examine patients and present a diagnosis and treatment plan. They will participate in health protection activities, e.g. maternity care and infant supervision with doctors and nurses whenever possible. 

Teaching: Theoretical learning takes place in lectures and group teaching in smaller workshops (group based learning, problem/case learning). The main components of the theoretical part focus on medical skills and attitudes. However, the latter goal, attitudes, is crucial for family medicine. Here is e.g. this means that the student aims to become an expert in the individual himself, and not in organs or a certain age, that the doctor uses time as a tool for diagnosing problems and acquires an overall view of the individual as a social being, part of a family, society and environment. 

The theoretical part is then followed by a practical internship for 3 weeks at a health center in the capital area and 1 week at a health center abroad under the guidance of an experienced instructor. 

Practical training at a health center focuses on the student acquiring certain clinical skills, such as in conversations with patients, appropriate solutions, or suturing wounds to name a few. 

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Fall
Elective period (LÆK515F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

An organized elective period in medical studies is 4 weeks either in the autumn or spring semester of the 6th year and is 8 ECTS. The elective course is primarily intended to give the student the opportunity to broaden his or her horizons by choosing subjects or areas of interest that the student wants to learn more about. Selection is not limited to clinical medicine, but the student can choose to work on organized scientific research, take courses at other faculties of the University of Iceland or at universities in other countries. It is a condition that the content of the study is related to health sciences. If the Elective period is taken in the form of web studies the supervisor of the course sets out instructions on how such a study is evaluated, but the course must correspond to the number of hours behind 8 ECTS. For a clinical elective course, the instructors are responsible for presenting the goal description for each student. The goal description is made in close consultation with the student and the student takes care of returning it to the supervisor of the course on time.

The supervising teacher decides whether the project and the goal description should be approved and whether the study meets the requirements of the Faculty of Medicine. In case of doubt, the supervising teacher consults with the director of teaching regarding this. It is desirable that students show initiative and draft themselves how their elective course is organized. If many students apply for the same projects or studies within the same specialties, they will be deducted.

For those students who have not managed the project themselves, they should contact the supervising teacher who can aid in finding an appropriate rotation/course.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Online learning
Self-study
Prerequisites
Third year | Fall
Practical clinical training (LÆK516F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
12 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is a practical clinical course designed to prepare medical students for work as doctors. This is a 6-week course and the time is spent in the same department. The student is under the guidance of a trainee with a specialist doctor with supervisor training as a sponsor. The aim is for continuity in the supervision and for the medical student to receive clinical training during the period.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Fall
Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness IV and V (LÆK517F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

See LÆK107F and LÆK408F

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Third year | Spring 1
Clinical toxicology (LÆK613F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
1 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is designed to give the students an overview of common poisonings presenting to hospitals and health care institutes and their treatment.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Third year | Spring 1
Rehabilitation (LÆK614F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Restoring the functional abilities of patients with short- or longterm disabilities and handicaps following accidents, diseases and congenital defects.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Spring 1
Forensic Medicine (LÆK615F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The theory and practice of forensic medicine.

Major themes: a) The death of humans b) Assaults and violence c) Suicide and accidental deaths d) Medicine and the law.

Topics:

  • Introduction to forensic medicine
  • Death and post mortem changes
  • The medical death investigation
  • Writing the death certificate
  • Autopsy and other methods in forensic medicine
  • Deaths by natural causes
  • Sudden unexpected death in children
  • Identification
  • Blunt force trauma
  • Sharp force trauma
  • Head injuries
  • Application of force to the neck
  • Alcohol, drugs and death
  • Traffic accidents and other high energy trauma
  • Gunshot injuries
  • Clinical forensic medicine
  • Documentation, interpretation and timing of injury
  • Asphyxia
  • Traumatology of the neck
  • Hypo- and hyperthermia
  • Drowning
  • Heat inuries and carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Electrical injuries
  • Scene investigation and examination of the dead body
  • Illustrative cases
Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Course taught first half of the semester
Third year | Spring 1
Emergency Medicine (LÆK616F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
5 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Duration - 4 weeks.  

In the 6th year the course in Emergency medicine is divided into two sections, two weeks each.  

The earlier 2 week period consists of lectures and simulation training on the following topics: 

  • Lecture day on violence –  
  • identifying victims, documentation of injuries and providing an overview of available care and support for victims of violence  
  • 2 day course in advanced life support – ALS cource acccording to the ERC standard.  
  • 1 day course in basic airway management  
  • 1 day of mixed simulated cases 
  • Emergency Ultrasound - e-cource and one half day of hands-on training 

The later 2 weeks consist of clinical training in the Emergency Department where medical students are trained in working up and treating  patients under the supervision and guidance of consultants and senior EM trainees.  

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Spring 1
Anaesthesia and Intensive Care (LÆK617F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
5 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course in anesthesiology and intensive care is taught in the sixth year and contains a theoretical and clinical part. The goal of the course is that medical students receive solid knowledge in anesthesiology and intensive care.

The goal of the clinical part is that medical students get experience in evaluating and preparing patients undergoing elective or urgent surgery and treating surgical patients and critically ill intensive care patients. The students will also gain experience in suggesting evaluation and plan treatment of these patients.

Theoretical teaching:

  1. A week of lectures in September. The lectures will cover the basics of anesthesia and intensive care.
  2. Electronical lectures supporting Very BASIC book. Please see below for details on the Very BASIC course

Clinical teaching:

  1. The students will spend two weeks at the department of anesthesia and intensive care, and will be assigned a daily task, either in the intensive care ward, operating theatre or preoperative center.
  2. The main this is on the basics of anesthesia and intensive care
    1. Clinical examination and evaluation of patients undergoing surgery.
    2. Training in maintaining airway patency using a bag-mask ventilation/oral airway, using laryngeal mask airway and finally the students should observe and attempt intubation, although that procedure is outside of the scope of the course.
    3. Evaluation of fluid balance and blood loss during and following surgical procedures and pain management after surgery.
    4. Evaluation and treatment critically ill and injured patients in the intensive care unit
    5. The following skills stations will be held
      1. Airway training
      2. Non-invasive and invasive ventilation
  • Resuscitation
  1. Students will follow one patient in the intensive care unit, they are instructed to choose an individual with a focused problem, or select a portion of the course of a critically ill patient.
  2. There is a 100% attendance requirement. Students who miss out a day should contact the professor to schedule how they can fulfill their attendance requirement.
  3. Students will take two calls, where they continue to work with the on call team from 15:30 - 22:00
  4. Syndrome maintain a log book during the clinical course

The clinical teaching occurs in:

Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús, Hringbraut: Martin Ingi Sigurðsson, professor, Sigurbergur Kárason assistant professor/chief physician og Theódór Skúli Sigurðsson consultant.

Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús,í Fossvogi: Katrín Þormar consultant, Ólöf Viktorsdóttir chief physician og Jóhanna Sigurjónsdóttir consultant.

Sjúkrahús Akraness: Björn Gunnarsson chief physician.

Sjúkrahúsið á Akureyri: umsjón Oddur Ólafsson, chief physician.

 

All consulting physicians at Landspitali and Akureyri hospital will participate in theoretical and clinical teaching of medical students. Resident physicians in training also participate in teaching.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Spring 1
Family Medicine (LÆK618F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
9 ECTS, credits
Course Description

95% of the problems which people seek for within in the health care sector can be solved within primary care. Most of these problems are rarely seen or presented in the hospital setting. 

Primary health care therefore relies on its own knowledge base, skills, attitudes, human resources and work facilities in order to carry out its tasks. 

The most common health problems and other health care topics and work methods are discussed. The basics of clinical examination, problem-based medical history, clinical skills and attitudes in diagnosis and problem solving, health care work and teamwork will be taught. Students talk to and examine patients and present a diagnosis and treatment plan. They will participate in health protection activities, e.g. maternity care and infant supervision with doctors and nurses whenever possible. 

Teaching: Theoretical learning takes place in lectures and group teaching in smaller workshops (group based learning, problem/case learning). The main components of the theoretical part focus on medical skills and attitudes. However, the latter goal, attitudes, is crucial for family medicine. Here is e.g. this means that the student aims to become an expert in the individual himself, and not in organs or a certain age, that the doctor uses time as a tool for diagnosing problems and acquires an overall view of the individual as a social being, part of a family, society and environment. 

The theoretical part is then followed by a practical internship for 3 weeks at a health center in the capital area and 1 week at a health center abroad under the guidance of an experienced instructor. 

Practical training at a health center focuses on the student acquiring certain clinical skills, such as in conversations with patients, appropriate solutions, or suturing wounds to name a few. 

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Spring 1
Elective period (LÆK619F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

An organized elective period in medical studies is 4 weeks either in the autumn or spring semester of the 6th year and is 8 ECTS. The elective course is primarily intended to give the student the opportunity to broaden his or her horizons by choosing subjects or areas of interest that the student wants to learn more about. Selection is not limited to clinical medicine, but the student can choose to work on organized scientific research, take courses at other faculties of the University of Iceland or at universities in other countries. It is a condition that the content of the study is related to health sciences. If the Elective period is taken in the form of web studies the supervisor of the course sets out instructions on how such a study is evaluated, but the course must correspond to the number of hours behind 8 ECTS. For a clinical elective course, the instructors are responsible for presenting the goal description for each student. The goal description is made in close consultation with the student and the student takes care of returning it to the supervisor of the course on time.

The supervising teacher decides whether the project and the goal description should be approved and whether the study meets the requirements of the Faculty of Medicine. In case of doubt, the supervising teacher consults with the director of teaching regarding this. It is desirable that students show initiative and draft themselves how their elective course is organized. If many students apply for the same projects or studies within the same specialties, they will be deducted.

For those students who have not managed the project themselves, they should contact the supervising teacher who can aid in finding an appropriate rotation/course.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Online learning
Self-study
Prerequisites
Third year | Spring 1
Information technology in health sciences (LÆK620F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Healthcare workers need to use information technology in clinical work and in research. This course gives an overview of health informatics and its historical context.

Two intertwined yet dissimilar aspects of health informatics are explored. On one hand the use of health informatics in clinical work is explored with an emphasis on students understanding how to identify good health informatics systems so they can become critical users of the systems they are expected to use in their work.

On the other hand this course explores the use of information technology in research and students will work on a project where they have to design their own research project and create a database to manage their data.

The goal of the course is that students will be able to better take advantage of information technology in clinical work as well as in research.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Course taught first half of the semester
Third year | Spring 1
Practical clinical training (LÆK622F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
12 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is a practical clinical course designed to prepare medical students for work as doctors. This is a 6-week course and the time is spent in the same department. The student is under the guidance of a trainee with a specialist doctor with supervisor training as a sponsor. The aim is for continuity in the supervision and for the medical student to receive clinical training during the period.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Spring 1
Comprehensive Clinical Science Examination (LÆK610F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The final weeks of the semester are dedicated to preparation for the final clinical examination CCSE (Comprehensive Clinical Science Examination).

In the beginning of the semester there is a meeting where the arrangement of the exam will be presented along with information about how best to prepare for the exam.

For further information see National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) website.

Students who wish to take USMLE Step 2 can get it evaluated instead of the CCSE exam with the approval of the Head of Education in the Medicine Faculty.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Self-study
Prerequisites
Course taught second half of the semester
First year
  • Whole year courses
  • LÆK202F
    Internal Medicine, theoretical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course in internal medicine is divided into two parts: a clinical part and a theoretical part, which are integrated both in content and timing. There will be two exams in internal medicine: a written exam and a clinical station exam. 

     

    Teaching in the theoretical part of the course consists of lectures according to the lecture schedule, discussion sessions related to the practical part of the course, and reading textbooks and journal articles in internal medicine. The main diseases covered by internal medicine and its subspecialties are discussed, with an emphasis on their prevalence, causes, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, disease course, diagnosis, and treatment. 

     

    The directors of the different subspecialities of internal medicine, that is hematology, endocrinology, rheumatology, cardiology, oncology, gastroenterology, nephrology, allergy and immunology, infectious diseases, pulmonary diseases and gerontology, have written study aims that include topics that the students should have good knowledge of (I) and also topics they should have moderate knowledge of (II). 

     

    The head of internal medicine is Einar Stefán Björnsson. The supervision of the program at Akureyri Hospital is managed by Associate Professor Gunnar Þór Gunnarsson. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK203F
    Internal Medicine, Clinical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Clinical examination in medicine, analysis of clinical information, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, treatment plan, and follow-up are emphasized. Students write a minimum number of case histories under the supervision of a physician. They take turns being on call. There are daily tutorials and clinical rounds. Full attendance is mandatory. Students follow their patients closely and discuss their work-up and treatment with their attending physician. In the 4th year lectures an emphasis is placed on common diseases and management problems.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK204F
    Surgery, theoretical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Not available yet.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK205F
    Surgery, clinical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The practical education in general  surgery is based on clinical courses which are run simultaneously as the lectures in the two major hospitals in Reykjavík and in Akureyri. The students participate in the daily work of the departments and attend clinical conferences, rounds and other teaching activities. Clinical cases are presented and discussed individually on ward rounds and grand rounds. Full attendance is compulsory. Examination is according to ESCA at the end of each course in January and in May. The final score is calculated as 75% from the ESCA examination and 25% from the students "book-keeping". Students must pass both parts of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK206F
    Otorhinolaryngology
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nose, throat, head and neck. Introduction of ear examination, classification of hearing disorders, diseases of external ear, eustachian tube and middle ear. Acute chronic otitis media, mastoiditis, otosclerosis, hearing rehabilitation, hearing aids, tinnitus, vertigo, vestibular tests and diseases of inner ear. Diseases of salivary glands and oral diseases, facial paralysis, facial trauma, anatomy and function of the nose. Diagnosis of nasal disorders, rhinomanometry, allergic disorders of the nose and nasal cavity. Chronic nasal obstruction, sinusitis, epistaxis, diseases of the nasopharynx, pharynx and oesophagus. Function of the larynx, hoarseness, inflammations, laryngeal paralysis and carcinoma of hypopharynx and larynx, laser surgery, head and neck cancer, diagnosis of lump in the neck, surgery of the head and neck.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK207F
    Diagnostic Imaging - Radiology
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The physics of radiation, radiation protection, general concepts of medical imaging, imaging methods (x-rays, computed tomography, resonance, isotope studies and magnetic resonance imaging) and the use of contrast material will be discussed. General definitions in clinical radiology and radiological examination of the various organ systems are studied, as well as contrast media and contrast examination. Radiology of the nervous system, chest and abdomen, musculoskeletal system and vessels will be explored. Attention will also be paid to interventional radiology. 

    Practicals are undertaken at the department of Radiology in the National University Hospital and in Orkuhúsið.  

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK208F
    Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness IV
    Mandatory (required) course
    0
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme. The focus will be on communicational tools like the SBAR that contribute to patient saftey and efficiancy of teamwork. The course will be conducted over one day and will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
    Course taught second half of the semester
  • Fall
  • LÆK105F
    Clinical Biochemistry
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic applications of chemical, molecular and cellular concepts and techniques to the understanding and evaluation of human health and desease.

    Lectures: General principles and practice of clinical biochemistry as well as specific diseases and organ systems. Practical aspects regarding appropriate use of the clinical laboratory in medicine. Frontiers in molecular medicine. Problem-based learning. Visit to a clinical laboratory in the 2nd year of medical studies.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • Whole year courses
  • LÆK408F
    Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness V
    Mandatory (required) course
    0
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme and LÆK107F in the forth year of the Medical Education programme. The focus will be on improving communicational skills in subjects regarding the doctor patient relationship regarding the main courses taught in the fifth year of Medical studies. The course will be conducted over one day or as several shorter teaching sessions all pending how this will best fit in to the teaching programme. The teaching will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Fall
  • LÆK301F
    Obstetrics and Gynaecology
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Teaching in obstetrics and gynecology mostly takes place at the Women's Department of Landspítali – the University Hospital of Iceland. The teaching consists of practical training and varied lessons: lectures, case studies, skills training, simulations, discussion sessions and project work. Medical students accompany doctors and midwives in the department in their daily work and are introduced to specialized care in our field, e.g. antenatal care, maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive medicine and cancer screening. The course is taught over 7 weeks for a quarter of 5th year medical students at a time.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK302F
    Pediatrics
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Medical students are divided into 4 groups for the practical training and participate in clinical work at the Children's Hospital at the University Hospital. Lectures are given in pediatrics in each term. The aim of the course is to make the medical student able to obtain medical history and carry out physical examination. Furthermore, the students will learn to lay out medical workup and give suggestions regarding therapy. The aim of the theoretical part of the course is to give the student a sound knowledge of pediatrics. Further information can be found on the Children's Hospital homepage.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK303F
    Medical Genetics
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of the course is for the students to gain insight into methods of molecular and genomic medicine. The main emphasis is on the practical aspects of clinical genetics, genetic diseases, congenital disorders, and genetics of common traits. Lectures and problem based learning methods are applied in the teaching. This includes structure and functions of genes. Gene mapping and bioinformatics. Biochemical and genetic basis of chosen genetic disorders. Chromosomes and chromosome disorders. Various stages of screening, including prenatal, biochemical, phenotype and population based programs for genetic disorders. Basic principles of multi factorial and polygenic traits, with emphasis on congenital abnormalities and selected common traits including cardiovascular disorders and cancer. Special interest will be paid to genetic disorders and genomic research in Iceland. Use of genomic and clinical databases as a tool in molecular medicine and medical genetics. Treatment options for genetic disorders and molecular genomic manipulation in rare and common disorders. Clinical genetic counselling approaches, and ethical, social and family implication will be given consideration.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK304F
    Psychiatry
    Mandatory (required) course
    14
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    14 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the course is to teach students about psychiatric diseases, their prevalence, etiology, course, prognosis, treatment and prevention. The teaching is provided in the form of lectures, seminars, problem-based learning and practical training at the Departments of Psychiatry of the National University Hospital as described in a detailed curriculum presented to students at the beginning of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK305F
    Neurology
    Mandatory (required) course
    10
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures on the principal symtoms and categories of neurological diseases. Clinical rotations: Four weeks clinical rotation Neurology Departments at the National University Hospital. Practical examinations are held at the end of the clinical rotation.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK306F
    Ophthalmology
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course covers basic ophthalmology. Lectures are on the following: Anatomy and physiology of the eye; history and examination; optics, refractive disorders and glasses; ocular trauma; retinal diseases; strabismus and children's eye diseases; lens and cataracts; the eye and diseases in other parts of the body; eyelids and orbita; age-related macular degeneration; glaucoma; neuro-ophthalmology; diabetic retinopathy; blepharitis; conjunctivitis; red eye (diff. diagnosis and treatment); corneal diseases.

    Each student spends about one obligatory week at the department of ophthalmology, Eiríksgata 37.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Spring 2
  • LÆK401F
    Obstetrics and Gynaecology
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Teaching in obstetrics and gynecology mostly takes place at the Women's Department of Landspítali – the University Hospital of Iceland. The teaching consists of practical training and varied lessons: lectures, case studies, skills training, simulations, discussion sessions and project work. Medical students accompany doctors and midwives in the department in their daily work and are introduced to specialized care in our field, e.g. antenatal care, maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive medicine and cancer screening. The course is taught over 7 weeks for a quarter of 5th year medical students at a time.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK402F
    Pediatrics
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Medical students are divided into 4 groups for the practical training and participate in clinical work at the Children's Hospital at the University Hospital. Lectures are given in pediatrics in each term. The aim of the course is to make the medical student able to obtain medical history and carry out physical examination. Furthermore, the students will learn to lay out medical workup and give suggestions regarding therapy. The aim of the theoretical part of the course is to give the student a sound knowledge of pediatrics. Further information can be found on the Children's Hospital homepage.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK403F
    Medical Genetics
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of the course is for the students to gain insight into methods of molecular and genomic medicine. The main emphasis is on the practical aspects of clinical genetics, genetic diseases, congenital disorders, and genetics of common traits. Lectures and problem based learning methods are applied in the teaching. This includes structure and functions of genes. Gene mapping and bioinformatics. Biochemical and genetic basis of chosen genetic disorders. Chromosomes and chromosome disorders. Various stages of screening, including prenatal, biochemical, phenotype and population based programs for genetic disorders. Basic principles of multi factorial and polygenic traits, with emphasis on congenital abnormalities and selected common traits including cardiovascular disorders and cancer. Special interest will be paid to genetic disorders and genomic research in Iceland. Use of genomic and clinical databases as a tool in molecular medicine and medical genetics. Treatment options for genetic disorders and molecular genomic manipulation in rare and common disorders. Clinical genetic counselling approaches, and ethical, social and family implication will be given consideration.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK404F
    Psychiatry
    Mandatory (required) course
    14
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    14 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the course is to teach students about psychiatric diseases, their prevalence, etiology, course, prognosis, treatment and prevention. The teaching is provided in the form of lectures, seminars, problem-based learning and practical training at the Departments of Psychiatry of the National University Hospital as described in a detailed curriculum presented to students at the beginning of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK405F
    Neurology
    Mandatory (required) course
    10
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures on the principal symtoms and categories of neurological diseases. Clinical rotations: Four weeks clinical rotation Neurology Departments at the National University Hospital. Practical examinations are held at the end of the clinical rotation.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK406F
    Ophthalmology
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course covers basic ophthalmology. Lectures are on the following: Anatomy and physiology of the eye; history and examination; optics, refractive disorders and glasses; ocular trauma; retinal diseases; strabismus and children's eye diseases; lens and cataracts; the eye and diseases in other parts of the body; eyelids and orbita; age-related macular degeneration; glaucoma; neuro-ophthalmology; diabetic retinopathy; blepharitis; conjunctivitis; red eye (diff. diagnosis and treatment); corneal diseases.

    Each student spends about one obligatory week at the department of ophthalmology, Eiríksgata 37.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK407F
    Dermatology and sexually transmitted diseases
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Structure and function of the skin. Pathology of the most common skin diseases. Most common topical drugs and their usage. Most common venereal diseases will be covered. All student should attend practical sessions where patients will be demonstrated.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • Whole year courses
  • LÆK621F
    Introduction to Clinical medicine/communicational skills VI
    Mandatory (required) course
    1
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme, LÆK208F in the forth year and LÆK408F in the fifth year of the Medical Education programme. The focus will be on improving communicational skills in subjects regarding the doctor patient relationship when conducting a family meeting or having to deliver bad news. The course will be conducted over one day or as several shorter teaching sessions all pending how this will best fit in to the teaching programme.The teaching will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK623F
    Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective
    Elective course
    4
    Free elective course within the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course was initiated by Faculty leaders in the Education Working Group of Nordic Medical Schools and received funding from the Joint Committee of the Nordic Medical Research Councils ((https://nos-m.org/ ). 33 experts from all the Nordic countries participate in the course, that is led by Saedis Saevarsdottir from the University of Iceland and Sisse Ostrowski from the University of Copenhagen.

    The technical revolution has generated large amounts of data in healthcare and research, and a rapidly increasing knowledge about factors of importance for the individual’s health. This holds great potential to support a change from the one-size-fits-all paradigm to personalised or precision medicine, to guide and thereby improve each health decision of expected benefit for the patient. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has contributed to a great public and political awareness of the importance of personalised medicine, where the influence of host factors like age, sex, obesity, smoking, co-morbidities etc. confer increased risk of serious COVID-19 illness. It is expected that in the near future, a more systematic and data-driven approach for prediction and risk stratification of COVID-19 patients and many other patient groups, will increase and improve due to better understanding of disease pathology, including the influence of genetic variability and biomarkers on disease risk and outcome. The Nordic countries have unique welfare systems with general access to healthcare, and longitudinal nationwide health databases and biobanks. This infrastructure combined with unique person identifiers creates an optimal setting for personalised medicine development, and the Nordic model of research, translation, care and education can serve as a forefront example for the rest of the world.

    The course in Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective will introduce, describe, define and discuss the concept of personalised medicine from the aspect of the patient, health-care and the infrastructure available to generate a learning environment that is integrated with everyday care of patients. The course also covers communication of risk and the ethical, legal and social aspects of personalised medicine and presents examples where personalised medicine approach is already used in routine care.

    Module 1 (5 videos, 6 readings) introduces the concept and methods of personalised medicine, including terminology and definitions, with emphasis on how the infrastructure of the Nordic countries facilitates developing and implementing personalised medicine in collaboration. Examples of applied personalised medicine in the Nordic countries and unmet needs in common diseases, where personalised medicine can be the way forward, will be described and discussed.

    Module 2 (6 videos, 8 readings) describes what kind of information is useful to tailor the care of individuals, with focus on the potential of health data that is already collected, and the benefits of using such “real-life” data compared to clinical guidelines based on evidence from randomised clinical trials, but also the importance for data “cleaning” to increase the usefulness of such data. Data analysis is key to unfold the potential of collected health data and the module introduces data science as a tool to apply data-driven clinical decision making and thus personalised medicine.

    Module 3 (5 videos, 3 readings) describes definitions and identification of biomarkers and how these can be applied in precision medicine, as this part of personalised medicine is often referred to today. Genetics have a fundamental role in personalised medicine, and the students are expected to have a basic understanding of terminology, definitions and methodology, while the focus here is on its use and potential in personalised medicine (other courses can be taken to gain that knowledge basis if needed). A similar approach is taken for the rapidly developing field of ‘omics’ (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics etc), since this field could well fill up a course on its own. Thus, the module describes analyses and interpretation of biomarker, genetic and omics data and their implications for care. In addition it describes how open data sources are used for analyses and interpretation of such data.

    Module 4 (4 videos, 4 readings) describes what “evidence” is and the challenges and opportunities and shift in the paradigm that data-driven personalised medicine has introduced. Furthermore, evidence-based medicine including different trial designs and novel trial designs will be described and discussed. The challenge for personalised medicine and novel trial designs to generate good enough evidence for clinical implementation is discussed from a clinical and legal perspective. Finally, the innovation pipeline from research to clinical practice is also described and discussed.

    Module 5 (5 videos, 7 readings) introduces, describes and discusses risk – a cornerstone in personalised medicine. How is risk calculated, communicated, inferred and interpreted? Furthermore, patient-centered care – a complement to personalised medicine – and the pro’s and con’s of screening for diseases will be described and discussed.Finally, the role of the media for the hype and horror sometimes introduced by novel healthcare technologies will be discussed.

    Module 6 (6 videos, 3 readings) discusses in more detail the ethical and social aspects of personalised medicine in research, clinic and society as well as its impact on health economy and prioritisation. The legislation and regulation of personalised medicine in the Nordic countries will be described and discussed. Furthermore, the industry interest in and collaboration on health data and biologic material will be described and discussed focusing on challenges, possibilities and perspectives. Finally, the module concludes on future perspectives for personalised medicine in the Nordic countries.

    For a more detailed description, see www.coursera.org Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective.

    Online learning
    Self-study
    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • LÆK501F
    Preventive Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Inheritance together with various environmental and lifestyle factors affect variations of health and well-being in the general population. Health professionals are, due to their knowledge and access to patients, in a unique position to excercise health promotion and prevention in their clinical work. This course gives an overview of the opportunities and methods that medical professionals can use for prevention and health promotion in our society. The aim is to provide the coming generations of physicians knowledge of evidence based methods for health promotion. Students will get training in reviewing the literature of the various avenues of health promotion and prevention.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK504F
    Clinical toxicology
    Mandatory (required) course
    1
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is designed to give the students an overview of common poisonings presenting to hospitals and health care institutes and their treatment.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK505F
    Rehabilitation
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Restoring the functional abilities of patients with short- or longterm disabilities and handicaps following accidents, diseases and congenital defects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK507F
    Management and quality issues
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Two weeks of specialised teaching as a final emphasis dealing with certain practical problems, problem solving and a course medical practice in general.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK508F
    Cancer epidemiology, diagnosis and clinical management
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Individual diseases are not covered in lectures. The focus is on a general approach and the theoretical background of oncology.

    Problem based learning: Students are divided into groups, read through a case and lead discussion. Students then choose one topic that they study and report to the group the following day.

    Interview techniques: Eight to ten students are in each group, and the interviews last 4-5 hours. The course is conducted in such a way that each medical student is given a role both as a physician and as a patient or a relative of a patient. Problems such as informing a patient that they have cancer, discussing palliative approaches and giving bad news are addressed. All interviews are recorded and then discussed collectively in a constructive way.

    Clinical training: Medical students attend the outpatient clinics of hematology and oncology and become familiar with the outpatient work with a specialist in hematology or oncology.  Each student will also go to the Hospice ward and the radiotherapy department.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK511F
    Forensic Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The theory and practice of forensic medicine.

    Major themes: a) The death of humans b) Assaults and violence c) Suicide and accidental deaths d) Medicine and the law.

    Topics:

    • Introduction to forensic medicine
    • Death and post mortem changes
    • The medical death investigation
    • Writing the death certificate
    • Autopsy and other methods in forensic medicine
    • Deaths by natural causes
    • Sudden unexpected death in children
    • Identification
    • Blunt force trauma
    • Sharp force trauma
    • Head injuries
    • Application of force to the neck
    • Alcohol, drugs and death
    • Traffic accidents and other high energy trauma
    • Gunshot injuries
    • Clinical forensic medicine
    • Documentation, interpretation and timing of injury
    • Asphyxia
    • Traumatology of the neck
    • Hypo- and hyperthermia
    • Drowning
    • Heat inuries and carbon monoxide poisoning
    • Electrical injuries
    • Scene investigation and examination of the dead body
    • Illustrative cases
    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK512F
    Emergency Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Duration - 4 weeks.  

    In the 6th year the course in Emergency medicine is divided into two sections, two weeks each.  

    The earlier 2 week period consists of lectures and simulation training on the following topics: 

    • Lecture day on violence –  
    • identifying victims, documentation of injuries and providing an overview of available care and support for victims of violence  
    • 2 day course in advanced life support – ALS cource acccording to the ERC standard.  
    • 1 day course in basic airway management  
    • 1 day of mixed simulated cases 
    • Emergency Ultrasound - e-cource and one half day of hands-on training 

    The later 2 weeks consist of clinical training in the Emergency Department where medical students are trained in working up and treating  patients under the supervision and guidance of consultants and senior EM trainees.  

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK513F
    Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course in anesthesiology and intensive care is taught in the sixth year and contains a theoretical and clinical part. The goal of the course is that medical students receive solid knowledge in anesthesiology and intensive care.

    The goal of the clinical part is that medical students get experience in evaluating and preparing patients undergoing elective or urgent surgery and treating surgical patients and critically ill intensive care patients. The students will also gain experience in suggesting evaluation and plan treatment of these patients.

    Theoretical teaching:

    1. A week of lectures in September. The lectures will cover the basics of anesthesia and intensive care.
    2. Electronical lectures supporting Very BASIC book. Please see below for details on the Very BASIC course

    Clinical teaching:

    1. The students will spend two weeks at the department of anesthesia and intensive care, and will be assigned a daily task, either in the intensive care ward, operating theatre or preoperative center.
    2. The main this is on the basics of anesthesia and intensive care
      1. Clinical examination and evaluation of patients undergoing surgery.
      2. Training in maintaining airway patency using a bag-mask ventilation/oral airway, using laryngeal mask airway and finally the students should observe and attempt intubation, although that procedure is outside of the scope of the course.
      3. Evaluation of fluid balance and blood loss during and following surgical procedures and pain management after surgery.
      4. Evaluation and treatment critically ill and injured patients in the intensive care unit
      5. The following skills stations will be held
        1. Airway training
        2. Non-invasive and invasive ventilation
    • Resuscitation
    1. Students will follow one patient in the intensive care unit, they are instructed to choose an individual with a focused problem, or select a portion of the course of a critically ill patient.
    2. There is a 100% attendance requirement. Students who miss out a day should contact the professor to schedule how they can fulfill their attendance requirement.
    3. Students will take two calls, where they continue to work with the on call team from 15:30 - 22:00
    4. Syndrome maintain a log book during the clinical course

    The clinical teaching occurs in:

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús, Hringbraut: Martin Ingi Sigurðsson, professor, Sigurbergur Kárason assistant professor/chief physician og Theódór Skúli Sigurðsson consultant.

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús,í Fossvogi: Katrín Þormar consultant, Ólöf Viktorsdóttir chief physician og Jóhanna Sigurjónsdóttir consultant.

    Sjúkrahús Akraness: Björn Gunnarsson chief physician.

    Sjúkrahúsið á Akureyri: umsjón Oddur Ólafsson, chief physician. 

    All consulting physicians at Landspitali and Akureyri hospital will participate in theoretical and clinical teaching of medical students. Resident physicians in training also participate in teaching.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK514F
    Family Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    9
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    9 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    95% of the problems which people seek for within in the health care sector can be solved within primary care. Most of these problems are rarely seen or presented in the hospital setting. 

    Primary health care therefore relies on its own knowledge base, skills, attitudes, human resources and work facilities in order to carry out its tasks. 

    The most common health problems and other health care topics and work methods are discussed. The basics of clinical examination, problem-based medical history, clinical skills and attitudes in diagnosis and problem solving, health care work and teamwork will be taught. Students talk to and examine patients and present a diagnosis and treatment plan. They will participate in health protection activities, e.g. maternity care and infant supervision with doctors and nurses whenever possible. 

    Teaching: Theoretical learning takes place in lectures and group teaching in smaller workshops (group based learning, problem/case learning). The main components of the theoretical part focus on medical skills and attitudes. However, the latter goal, attitudes, is crucial for family medicine. Here is e.g. this means that the student aims to become an expert in the individual himself, and not in organs or a certain age, that the doctor uses time as a tool for diagnosing problems and acquires an overall view of the individual as a social being, part of a family, society and environment. 

    The theoretical part is then followed by a practical internship for 3 weeks at a health center in the capital area and 1 week at a health center abroad under the guidance of an experienced instructor. 

    Practical training at a health center focuses on the student acquiring certain clinical skills, such as in conversations with patients, appropriate solutions, or suturing wounds to name a few. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK515F
    Elective period
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    An organized elective period in medical studies is 4 weeks either in the autumn or spring semester of the 6th year and is 8 ECTS. The elective course is primarily intended to give the student the opportunity to broaden his or her horizons by choosing subjects or areas of interest that the student wants to learn more about. Selection is not limited to clinical medicine, but the student can choose to work on organized scientific research, take courses at other faculties of the University of Iceland or at universities in other countries. It is a condition that the content of the study is related to health sciences. If the Elective period is taken in the form of web studies the supervisor of the course sets out instructions on how such a study is evaluated, but the course must correspond to the number of hours behind 8 ECTS. For a clinical elective course, the instructors are responsible for presenting the goal description for each student. The goal description is made in close consultation with the student and the student takes care of returning it to the supervisor of the course on time.

    The supervising teacher decides whether the project and the goal description should be approved and whether the study meets the requirements of the Faculty of Medicine. In case of doubt, the supervising teacher consults with the director of teaching regarding this. It is desirable that students show initiative and draft themselves how their elective course is organized. If many students apply for the same projects or studies within the same specialties, they will be deducted.

    For those students who have not managed the project themselves, they should contact the supervising teacher who can aid in finding an appropriate rotation/course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Online learning
    Self-study
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK516F
    Practical clinical training
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is a practical clinical course designed to prepare medical students for work as doctors. This is a 6-week course and the time is spent in the same department. The student is under the guidance of a trainee with a specialist doctor with supervisor training as a sponsor. The aim is for continuity in the supervision and for the medical student to receive clinical training during the period.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK517F
    Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness IV and V
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    See LÆK107F and LÆK408F

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • LÆK613F
    Clinical toxicology
    Mandatory (required) course
    1
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is designed to give the students an overview of common poisonings presenting to hospitals and health care institutes and their treatment.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK614F
    Rehabilitation
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Restoring the functional abilities of patients with short- or longterm disabilities and handicaps following accidents, diseases and congenital defects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK615F
    Forensic Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The theory and practice of forensic medicine.

    Major themes: a) The death of humans b) Assaults and violence c) Suicide and accidental deaths d) Medicine and the law.

    Topics:

    • Introduction to forensic medicine
    • Death and post mortem changes
    • The medical death investigation
    • Writing the death certificate
    • Autopsy and other methods in forensic medicine
    • Deaths by natural causes
    • Sudden unexpected death in children
    • Identification
    • Blunt force trauma
    • Sharp force trauma
    • Head injuries
    • Application of force to the neck
    • Alcohol, drugs and death
    • Traffic accidents and other high energy trauma
    • Gunshot injuries
    • Clinical forensic medicine
    • Documentation, interpretation and timing of injury
    • Asphyxia
    • Traumatology of the neck
    • Hypo- and hyperthermia
    • Drowning
    • Heat inuries and carbon monoxide poisoning
    • Electrical injuries
    • Scene investigation and examination of the dead body
    • Illustrative cases
    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK616F
    Emergency Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Duration - 4 weeks.  

    In the 6th year the course in Emergency medicine is divided into two sections, two weeks each.  

    The earlier 2 week period consists of lectures and simulation training on the following topics: 

    • Lecture day on violence –  
    • identifying victims, documentation of injuries and providing an overview of available care and support for victims of violence  
    • 2 day course in advanced life support – ALS cource acccording to the ERC standard.  
    • 1 day course in basic airway management  
    • 1 day of mixed simulated cases 
    • Emergency Ultrasound - e-cource and one half day of hands-on training 

    The later 2 weeks consist of clinical training in the Emergency Department where medical students are trained in working up and treating  patients under the supervision and guidance of consultants and senior EM trainees.  

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK617F
    Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course in anesthesiology and intensive care is taught in the sixth year and contains a theoretical and clinical part. The goal of the course is that medical students receive solid knowledge in anesthesiology and intensive care.

    The goal of the clinical part is that medical students get experience in evaluating and preparing patients undergoing elective or urgent surgery and treating surgical patients and critically ill intensive care patients. The students will also gain experience in suggesting evaluation and plan treatment of these patients.

    Theoretical teaching:

    1. A week of lectures in September. The lectures will cover the basics of anesthesia and intensive care.
    2. Electronical lectures supporting Very BASIC book. Please see below for details on the Very BASIC course

    Clinical teaching:

    1. The students will spend two weeks at the department of anesthesia and intensive care, and will be assigned a daily task, either in the intensive care ward, operating theatre or preoperative center.
    2. The main this is on the basics of anesthesia and intensive care
      1. Clinical examination and evaluation of patients undergoing surgery.
      2. Training in maintaining airway patency using a bag-mask ventilation/oral airway, using laryngeal mask airway and finally the students should observe and attempt intubation, although that procedure is outside of the scope of the course.
      3. Evaluation of fluid balance and blood loss during and following surgical procedures and pain management after surgery.
      4. Evaluation and treatment critically ill and injured patients in the intensive care unit
      5. The following skills stations will be held
        1. Airway training
        2. Non-invasive and invasive ventilation
    • Resuscitation
    1. Students will follow one patient in the intensive care unit, they are instructed to choose an individual with a focused problem, or select a portion of the course of a critically ill patient.
    2. There is a 100% attendance requirement. Students who miss out a day should contact the professor to schedule how they can fulfill their attendance requirement.
    3. Students will take two calls, where they continue to work with the on call team from 15:30 - 22:00
    4. Syndrome maintain a log book during the clinical course

    The clinical teaching occurs in:

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús, Hringbraut: Martin Ingi Sigurðsson, professor, Sigurbergur Kárason assistant professor/chief physician og Theódór Skúli Sigurðsson consultant.

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús,í Fossvogi: Katrín Þormar consultant, Ólöf Viktorsdóttir chief physician og Jóhanna Sigurjónsdóttir consultant.

    Sjúkrahús Akraness: Björn Gunnarsson chief physician.

    Sjúkrahúsið á Akureyri: umsjón Oddur Ólafsson, chief physician.

     

    All consulting physicians at Landspitali and Akureyri hospital will participate in theoretical and clinical teaching of medical students. Resident physicians in training also participate in teaching.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK618F
    Family Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    9
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    9 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    95% of the problems which people seek for within in the health care sector can be solved within primary care. Most of these problems are rarely seen or presented in the hospital setting. 

    Primary health care therefore relies on its own knowledge base, skills, attitudes, human resources and work facilities in order to carry out its tasks. 

    The most common health problems and other health care topics and work methods are discussed. The basics of clinical examination, problem-based medical history, clinical skills and attitudes in diagnosis and problem solving, health care work and teamwork will be taught. Students talk to and examine patients and present a diagnosis and treatment plan. They will participate in health protection activities, e.g. maternity care and infant supervision with doctors and nurses whenever possible. 

    Teaching: Theoretical learning takes place in lectures and group teaching in smaller workshops (group based learning, problem/case learning). The main components of the theoretical part focus on medical skills and attitudes. However, the latter goal, attitudes, is crucial for family medicine. Here is e.g. this means that the student aims to become an expert in the individual himself, and not in organs or a certain age, that the doctor uses time as a tool for diagnosing problems and acquires an overall view of the individual as a social being, part of a family, society and environment. 

    The theoretical part is then followed by a practical internship for 3 weeks at a health center in the capital area and 1 week at a health center abroad under the guidance of an experienced instructor. 

    Practical training at a health center focuses on the student acquiring certain clinical skills, such as in conversations with patients, appropriate solutions, or suturing wounds to name a few. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK619F
    Elective period
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    An organized elective period in medical studies is 4 weeks either in the autumn or spring semester of the 6th year and is 8 ECTS. The elective course is primarily intended to give the student the opportunity to broaden his or her horizons by choosing subjects or areas of interest that the student wants to learn more about. Selection is not limited to clinical medicine, but the student can choose to work on organized scientific research, take courses at other faculties of the University of Iceland or at universities in other countries. It is a condition that the content of the study is related to health sciences. If the Elective period is taken in the form of web studies the supervisor of the course sets out instructions on how such a study is evaluated, but the course must correspond to the number of hours behind 8 ECTS. For a clinical elective course, the instructors are responsible for presenting the goal description for each student. The goal description is made in close consultation with the student and the student takes care of returning it to the supervisor of the course on time.

    The supervising teacher decides whether the project and the goal description should be approved and whether the study meets the requirements of the Faculty of Medicine. In case of doubt, the supervising teacher consults with the director of teaching regarding this. It is desirable that students show initiative and draft themselves how their elective course is organized. If many students apply for the same projects or studies within the same specialties, they will be deducted.

    For those students who have not managed the project themselves, they should contact the supervising teacher who can aid in finding an appropriate rotation/course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Online learning
    Self-study
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK620F
    Information technology in health sciences
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Healthcare workers need to use information technology in clinical work and in research. This course gives an overview of health informatics and its historical context.

    Two intertwined yet dissimilar aspects of health informatics are explored. On one hand the use of health informatics in clinical work is explored with an emphasis on students understanding how to identify good health informatics systems so they can become critical users of the systems they are expected to use in their work.

    On the other hand this course explores the use of information technology in research and students will work on a project where they have to design their own research project and create a database to manage their data.

    The goal of the course is that students will be able to better take advantage of information technology in clinical work as well as in research.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK622F
    Practical clinical training
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is a practical clinical course designed to prepare medical students for work as doctors. This is a 6-week course and the time is spent in the same department. The student is under the guidance of a trainee with a specialist doctor with supervisor training as a sponsor. The aim is for continuity in the supervision and for the medical student to receive clinical training during the period.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK610F
    Comprehensive Clinical Science Examination
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The final weeks of the semester are dedicated to preparation for the final clinical examination CCSE (Comprehensive Clinical Science Examination).

    In the beginning of the semester there is a meeting where the arrangement of the exam will be presented along with information about how best to prepare for the exam.

    For further information see National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) website.

    Students who wish to take USMLE Step 2 can get it evaluated instead of the CCSE exam with the approval of the Head of Education in the Medicine Faculty.

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Course taught second half of the semester
Second year
  • Whole year courses
  • LÆK202F
    Internal Medicine, theoretical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course in internal medicine is divided into two parts: a clinical part and a theoretical part, which are integrated both in content and timing. There will be two exams in internal medicine: a written exam and a clinical station exam. 

     

    Teaching in the theoretical part of the course consists of lectures according to the lecture schedule, discussion sessions related to the practical part of the course, and reading textbooks and journal articles in internal medicine. The main diseases covered by internal medicine and its subspecialties are discussed, with an emphasis on their prevalence, causes, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, disease course, diagnosis, and treatment. 

     

    The directors of the different subspecialities of internal medicine, that is hematology, endocrinology, rheumatology, cardiology, oncology, gastroenterology, nephrology, allergy and immunology, infectious diseases, pulmonary diseases and gerontology, have written study aims that include topics that the students should have good knowledge of (I) and also topics they should have moderate knowledge of (II). 

     

    The head of internal medicine is Einar Stefán Björnsson. The supervision of the program at Akureyri Hospital is managed by Associate Professor Gunnar Þór Gunnarsson. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK203F
    Internal Medicine, Clinical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Clinical examination in medicine, analysis of clinical information, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, treatment plan, and follow-up are emphasized. Students write a minimum number of case histories under the supervision of a physician. They take turns being on call. There are daily tutorials and clinical rounds. Full attendance is mandatory. Students follow their patients closely and discuss their work-up and treatment with their attending physician. In the 4th year lectures an emphasis is placed on common diseases and management problems.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK204F
    Surgery, theoretical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Not available yet.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK205F
    Surgery, clinical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The practical education in general  surgery is based on clinical courses which are run simultaneously as the lectures in the two major hospitals in Reykjavík and in Akureyri. The students participate in the daily work of the departments and attend clinical conferences, rounds and other teaching activities. Clinical cases are presented and discussed individually on ward rounds and grand rounds. Full attendance is compulsory. Examination is according to ESCA at the end of each course in January and in May. The final score is calculated as 75% from the ESCA examination and 25% from the students "book-keeping". Students must pass both parts of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK206F
    Otorhinolaryngology
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nose, throat, head and neck. Introduction of ear examination, classification of hearing disorders, diseases of external ear, eustachian tube and middle ear. Acute chronic otitis media, mastoiditis, otosclerosis, hearing rehabilitation, hearing aids, tinnitus, vertigo, vestibular tests and diseases of inner ear. Diseases of salivary glands and oral diseases, facial paralysis, facial trauma, anatomy and function of the nose. Diagnosis of nasal disorders, rhinomanometry, allergic disorders of the nose and nasal cavity. Chronic nasal obstruction, sinusitis, epistaxis, diseases of the nasopharynx, pharynx and oesophagus. Function of the larynx, hoarseness, inflammations, laryngeal paralysis and carcinoma of hypopharynx and larynx, laser surgery, head and neck cancer, diagnosis of lump in the neck, surgery of the head and neck.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK207F
    Diagnostic Imaging - Radiology
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The physics of radiation, radiation protection, general concepts of medical imaging, imaging methods (x-rays, computed tomography, resonance, isotope studies and magnetic resonance imaging) and the use of contrast material will be discussed. General definitions in clinical radiology and radiological examination of the various organ systems are studied, as well as contrast media and contrast examination. Radiology of the nervous system, chest and abdomen, musculoskeletal system and vessels will be explored. Attention will also be paid to interventional radiology. 

    Practicals are undertaken at the department of Radiology in the National University Hospital and in Orkuhúsið.  

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK208F
    Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness IV
    Mandatory (required) course
    0
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme. The focus will be on communicational tools like the SBAR that contribute to patient saftey and efficiancy of teamwork. The course will be conducted over one day and will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
    Course taught second half of the semester
  • Fall
  • LÆK105F
    Clinical Biochemistry
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic applications of chemical, molecular and cellular concepts and techniques to the understanding and evaluation of human health and desease.

    Lectures: General principles and practice of clinical biochemistry as well as specific diseases and organ systems. Practical aspects regarding appropriate use of the clinical laboratory in medicine. Frontiers in molecular medicine. Problem-based learning. Visit to a clinical laboratory in the 2nd year of medical studies.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • Whole year courses
  • LÆK408F
    Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness V
    Mandatory (required) course
    0
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme and LÆK107F in the forth year of the Medical Education programme. The focus will be on improving communicational skills in subjects regarding the doctor patient relationship regarding the main courses taught in the fifth year of Medical studies. The course will be conducted over one day or as several shorter teaching sessions all pending how this will best fit in to the teaching programme. The teaching will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Fall
  • LÆK301F
    Obstetrics and Gynaecology
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Teaching in obstetrics and gynecology mostly takes place at the Women's Department of Landspítali – the University Hospital of Iceland. The teaching consists of practical training and varied lessons: lectures, case studies, skills training, simulations, discussion sessions and project work. Medical students accompany doctors and midwives in the department in their daily work and are introduced to specialized care in our field, e.g. antenatal care, maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive medicine and cancer screening. The course is taught over 7 weeks for a quarter of 5th year medical students at a time.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK302F
    Pediatrics
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Medical students are divided into 4 groups for the practical training and participate in clinical work at the Children's Hospital at the University Hospital. Lectures are given in pediatrics in each term. The aim of the course is to make the medical student able to obtain medical history and carry out physical examination. Furthermore, the students will learn to lay out medical workup and give suggestions regarding therapy. The aim of the theoretical part of the course is to give the student a sound knowledge of pediatrics. Further information can be found on the Children's Hospital homepage.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK303F
    Medical Genetics
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of the course is for the students to gain insight into methods of molecular and genomic medicine. The main emphasis is on the practical aspects of clinical genetics, genetic diseases, congenital disorders, and genetics of common traits. Lectures and problem based learning methods are applied in the teaching. This includes structure and functions of genes. Gene mapping and bioinformatics. Biochemical and genetic basis of chosen genetic disorders. Chromosomes and chromosome disorders. Various stages of screening, including prenatal, biochemical, phenotype and population based programs for genetic disorders. Basic principles of multi factorial and polygenic traits, with emphasis on congenital abnormalities and selected common traits including cardiovascular disorders and cancer. Special interest will be paid to genetic disorders and genomic research in Iceland. Use of genomic and clinical databases as a tool in molecular medicine and medical genetics. Treatment options for genetic disorders and molecular genomic manipulation in rare and common disorders. Clinical genetic counselling approaches, and ethical, social and family implication will be given consideration.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK304F
    Psychiatry
    Mandatory (required) course
    14
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    14 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the course is to teach students about psychiatric diseases, their prevalence, etiology, course, prognosis, treatment and prevention. The teaching is provided in the form of lectures, seminars, problem-based learning and practical training at the Departments of Psychiatry of the National University Hospital as described in a detailed curriculum presented to students at the beginning of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK305F
    Neurology
    Mandatory (required) course
    10
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures on the principal symtoms and categories of neurological diseases. Clinical rotations: Four weeks clinical rotation Neurology Departments at the National University Hospital. Practical examinations are held at the end of the clinical rotation.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK306F
    Ophthalmology
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course covers basic ophthalmology. Lectures are on the following: Anatomy and physiology of the eye; history and examination; optics, refractive disorders and glasses; ocular trauma; retinal diseases; strabismus and children's eye diseases; lens and cataracts; the eye and diseases in other parts of the body; eyelids and orbita; age-related macular degeneration; glaucoma; neuro-ophthalmology; diabetic retinopathy; blepharitis; conjunctivitis; red eye (diff. diagnosis and treatment); corneal diseases.

    Each student spends about one obligatory week at the department of ophthalmology, Eiríksgata 37.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Spring 2
  • LÆK401F
    Obstetrics and Gynaecology
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Teaching in obstetrics and gynecology mostly takes place at the Women's Department of Landspítali – the University Hospital of Iceland. The teaching consists of practical training and varied lessons: lectures, case studies, skills training, simulations, discussion sessions and project work. Medical students accompany doctors and midwives in the department in their daily work and are introduced to specialized care in our field, e.g. antenatal care, maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive medicine and cancer screening. The course is taught over 7 weeks for a quarter of 5th year medical students at a time.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK402F
    Pediatrics
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Medical students are divided into 4 groups for the practical training and participate in clinical work at the Children's Hospital at the University Hospital. Lectures are given in pediatrics in each term. The aim of the course is to make the medical student able to obtain medical history and carry out physical examination. Furthermore, the students will learn to lay out medical workup and give suggestions regarding therapy. The aim of the theoretical part of the course is to give the student a sound knowledge of pediatrics. Further information can be found on the Children's Hospital homepage.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK403F
    Medical Genetics
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of the course is for the students to gain insight into methods of molecular and genomic medicine. The main emphasis is on the practical aspects of clinical genetics, genetic diseases, congenital disorders, and genetics of common traits. Lectures and problem based learning methods are applied in the teaching. This includes structure and functions of genes. Gene mapping and bioinformatics. Biochemical and genetic basis of chosen genetic disorders. Chromosomes and chromosome disorders. Various stages of screening, including prenatal, biochemical, phenotype and population based programs for genetic disorders. Basic principles of multi factorial and polygenic traits, with emphasis on congenital abnormalities and selected common traits including cardiovascular disorders and cancer. Special interest will be paid to genetic disorders and genomic research in Iceland. Use of genomic and clinical databases as a tool in molecular medicine and medical genetics. Treatment options for genetic disorders and molecular genomic manipulation in rare and common disorders. Clinical genetic counselling approaches, and ethical, social and family implication will be given consideration.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK404F
    Psychiatry
    Mandatory (required) course
    14
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    14 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the course is to teach students about psychiatric diseases, their prevalence, etiology, course, prognosis, treatment and prevention. The teaching is provided in the form of lectures, seminars, problem-based learning and practical training at the Departments of Psychiatry of the National University Hospital as described in a detailed curriculum presented to students at the beginning of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK405F
    Neurology
    Mandatory (required) course
    10
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures on the principal symtoms and categories of neurological diseases. Clinical rotations: Four weeks clinical rotation Neurology Departments at the National University Hospital. Practical examinations are held at the end of the clinical rotation.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK406F
    Ophthalmology
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course covers basic ophthalmology. Lectures are on the following: Anatomy and physiology of the eye; history and examination; optics, refractive disorders and glasses; ocular trauma; retinal diseases; strabismus and children's eye diseases; lens and cataracts; the eye and diseases in other parts of the body; eyelids and orbita; age-related macular degeneration; glaucoma; neuro-ophthalmology; diabetic retinopathy; blepharitis; conjunctivitis; red eye (diff. diagnosis and treatment); corneal diseases.

    Each student spends about one obligatory week at the department of ophthalmology, Eiríksgata 37.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK407F
    Dermatology and sexually transmitted diseases
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Structure and function of the skin. Pathology of the most common skin diseases. Most common topical drugs and their usage. Most common venereal diseases will be covered. All student should attend practical sessions where patients will be demonstrated.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • Whole year courses
  • LÆK621F
    Introduction to Clinical medicine/communicational skills VI
    Mandatory (required) course
    1
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme, LÆK208F in the forth year and LÆK408F in the fifth year of the Medical Education programme. The focus will be on improving communicational skills in subjects regarding the doctor patient relationship when conducting a family meeting or having to deliver bad news. The course will be conducted over one day or as several shorter teaching sessions all pending how this will best fit in to the teaching programme.The teaching will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK623F
    Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective
    Elective course
    4
    Free elective course within the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course was initiated by Faculty leaders in the Education Working Group of Nordic Medical Schools and received funding from the Joint Committee of the Nordic Medical Research Councils ((https://nos-m.org/ ). 33 experts from all the Nordic countries participate in the course, that is led by Saedis Saevarsdottir from the University of Iceland and Sisse Ostrowski from the University of Copenhagen.

    The technical revolution has generated large amounts of data in healthcare and research, and a rapidly increasing knowledge about factors of importance for the individual’s health. This holds great potential to support a change from the one-size-fits-all paradigm to personalised or precision medicine, to guide and thereby improve each health decision of expected benefit for the patient. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has contributed to a great public and political awareness of the importance of personalised medicine, where the influence of host factors like age, sex, obesity, smoking, co-morbidities etc. confer increased risk of serious COVID-19 illness. It is expected that in the near future, a more systematic and data-driven approach for prediction and risk stratification of COVID-19 patients and many other patient groups, will increase and improve due to better understanding of disease pathology, including the influence of genetic variability and biomarkers on disease risk and outcome. The Nordic countries have unique welfare systems with general access to healthcare, and longitudinal nationwide health databases and biobanks. This infrastructure combined with unique person identifiers creates an optimal setting for personalised medicine development, and the Nordic model of research, translation, care and education can serve as a forefront example for the rest of the world.

    The course in Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective will introduce, describe, define and discuss the concept of personalised medicine from the aspect of the patient, health-care and the infrastructure available to generate a learning environment that is integrated with everyday care of patients. The course also covers communication of risk and the ethical, legal and social aspects of personalised medicine and presents examples where personalised medicine approach is already used in routine care.

    Module 1 (5 videos, 6 readings) introduces the concept and methods of personalised medicine, including terminology and definitions, with emphasis on how the infrastructure of the Nordic countries facilitates developing and implementing personalised medicine in collaboration. Examples of applied personalised medicine in the Nordic countries and unmet needs in common diseases, where personalised medicine can be the way forward, will be described and discussed.

    Module 2 (6 videos, 8 readings) describes what kind of information is useful to tailor the care of individuals, with focus on the potential of health data that is already collected, and the benefits of using such “real-life” data compared to clinical guidelines based on evidence from randomised clinical trials, but also the importance for data “cleaning” to increase the usefulness of such data. Data analysis is key to unfold the potential of collected health data and the module introduces data science as a tool to apply data-driven clinical decision making and thus personalised medicine.

    Module 3 (5 videos, 3 readings) describes definitions and identification of biomarkers and how these can be applied in precision medicine, as this part of personalised medicine is often referred to today. Genetics have a fundamental role in personalised medicine, and the students are expected to have a basic understanding of terminology, definitions and methodology, while the focus here is on its use and potential in personalised medicine (other courses can be taken to gain that knowledge basis if needed). A similar approach is taken for the rapidly developing field of ‘omics’ (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics etc), since this field could well fill up a course on its own. Thus, the module describes analyses and interpretation of biomarker, genetic and omics data and their implications for care. In addition it describes how open data sources are used for analyses and interpretation of such data.

    Module 4 (4 videos, 4 readings) describes what “evidence” is and the challenges and opportunities and shift in the paradigm that data-driven personalised medicine has introduced. Furthermore, evidence-based medicine including different trial designs and novel trial designs will be described and discussed. The challenge for personalised medicine and novel trial designs to generate good enough evidence for clinical implementation is discussed from a clinical and legal perspective. Finally, the innovation pipeline from research to clinical practice is also described and discussed.

    Module 5 (5 videos, 7 readings) introduces, describes and discusses risk – a cornerstone in personalised medicine. How is risk calculated, communicated, inferred and interpreted? Furthermore, patient-centered care – a complement to personalised medicine – and the pro’s and con’s of screening for diseases will be described and discussed.Finally, the role of the media for the hype and horror sometimes introduced by novel healthcare technologies will be discussed.

    Module 6 (6 videos, 3 readings) discusses in more detail the ethical and social aspects of personalised medicine in research, clinic and society as well as its impact on health economy and prioritisation. The legislation and regulation of personalised medicine in the Nordic countries will be described and discussed. Furthermore, the industry interest in and collaboration on health data and biologic material will be described and discussed focusing on challenges, possibilities and perspectives. Finally, the module concludes on future perspectives for personalised medicine in the Nordic countries.

    For a more detailed description, see www.coursera.org Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective.

    Online learning
    Self-study
    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • LÆK501F
    Preventive Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Inheritance together with various environmental and lifestyle factors affect variations of health and well-being in the general population. Health professionals are, due to their knowledge and access to patients, in a unique position to excercise health promotion and prevention in their clinical work. This course gives an overview of the opportunities and methods that medical professionals can use for prevention and health promotion in our society. The aim is to provide the coming generations of physicians knowledge of evidence based methods for health promotion. Students will get training in reviewing the literature of the various avenues of health promotion and prevention.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK504F
    Clinical toxicology
    Mandatory (required) course
    1
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is designed to give the students an overview of common poisonings presenting to hospitals and health care institutes and their treatment.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK505F
    Rehabilitation
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Restoring the functional abilities of patients with short- or longterm disabilities and handicaps following accidents, diseases and congenital defects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK507F
    Management and quality issues
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Two weeks of specialised teaching as a final emphasis dealing with certain practical problems, problem solving and a course medical practice in general.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK508F
    Cancer epidemiology, diagnosis and clinical management
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Individual diseases are not covered in lectures. The focus is on a general approach and the theoretical background of oncology.

    Problem based learning: Students are divided into groups, read through a case and lead discussion. Students then choose one topic that they study and report to the group the following day.

    Interview techniques: Eight to ten students are in each group, and the interviews last 4-5 hours. The course is conducted in such a way that each medical student is given a role both as a physician and as a patient or a relative of a patient. Problems such as informing a patient that they have cancer, discussing palliative approaches and giving bad news are addressed. All interviews are recorded and then discussed collectively in a constructive way.

    Clinical training: Medical students attend the outpatient clinics of hematology and oncology and become familiar with the outpatient work with a specialist in hematology or oncology.  Each student will also go to the Hospice ward and the radiotherapy department.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK511F
    Forensic Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The theory and practice of forensic medicine.

    Major themes: a) The death of humans b) Assaults and violence c) Suicide and accidental deaths d) Medicine and the law.

    Topics:

    • Introduction to forensic medicine
    • Death and post mortem changes
    • The medical death investigation
    • Writing the death certificate
    • Autopsy and other methods in forensic medicine
    • Deaths by natural causes
    • Sudden unexpected death in children
    • Identification
    • Blunt force trauma
    • Sharp force trauma
    • Head injuries
    • Application of force to the neck
    • Alcohol, drugs and death
    • Traffic accidents and other high energy trauma
    • Gunshot injuries
    • Clinical forensic medicine
    • Documentation, interpretation and timing of injury
    • Asphyxia
    • Traumatology of the neck
    • Hypo- and hyperthermia
    • Drowning
    • Heat inuries and carbon monoxide poisoning
    • Electrical injuries
    • Scene investigation and examination of the dead body
    • Illustrative cases
    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK512F
    Emergency Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Duration - 4 weeks.  

    In the 6th year the course in Emergency medicine is divided into two sections, two weeks each.  

    The earlier 2 week period consists of lectures and simulation training on the following topics: 

    • Lecture day on violence –  
    • identifying victims, documentation of injuries and providing an overview of available care and support for victims of violence  
    • 2 day course in advanced life support – ALS cource acccording to the ERC standard.  
    • 1 day course in basic airway management  
    • 1 day of mixed simulated cases 
    • Emergency Ultrasound - e-cource and one half day of hands-on training 

    The later 2 weeks consist of clinical training in the Emergency Department where medical students are trained in working up and treating  patients under the supervision and guidance of consultants and senior EM trainees.  

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK513F
    Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course in anesthesiology and intensive care is taught in the sixth year and contains a theoretical and clinical part. The goal of the course is that medical students receive solid knowledge in anesthesiology and intensive care.

    The goal of the clinical part is that medical students get experience in evaluating and preparing patients undergoing elective or urgent surgery and treating surgical patients and critically ill intensive care patients. The students will also gain experience in suggesting evaluation and plan treatment of these patients.

    Theoretical teaching:

    1. A week of lectures in September. The lectures will cover the basics of anesthesia and intensive care.
    2. Electronical lectures supporting Very BASIC book. Please see below for details on the Very BASIC course

    Clinical teaching:

    1. The students will spend two weeks at the department of anesthesia and intensive care, and will be assigned a daily task, either in the intensive care ward, operating theatre or preoperative center.
    2. The main this is on the basics of anesthesia and intensive care
      1. Clinical examination and evaluation of patients undergoing surgery.
      2. Training in maintaining airway patency using a bag-mask ventilation/oral airway, using laryngeal mask airway and finally the students should observe and attempt intubation, although that procedure is outside of the scope of the course.
      3. Evaluation of fluid balance and blood loss during and following surgical procedures and pain management after surgery.
      4. Evaluation and treatment critically ill and injured patients in the intensive care unit
      5. The following skills stations will be held
        1. Airway training
        2. Non-invasive and invasive ventilation
    • Resuscitation
    1. Students will follow one patient in the intensive care unit, they are instructed to choose an individual with a focused problem, or select a portion of the course of a critically ill patient.
    2. There is a 100% attendance requirement. Students who miss out a day should contact the professor to schedule how they can fulfill their attendance requirement.
    3. Students will take two calls, where they continue to work with the on call team from 15:30 - 22:00
    4. Syndrome maintain a log book during the clinical course

    The clinical teaching occurs in:

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús, Hringbraut: Martin Ingi Sigurðsson, professor, Sigurbergur Kárason assistant professor/chief physician og Theódór Skúli Sigurðsson consultant.

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús,í Fossvogi: Katrín Þormar consultant, Ólöf Viktorsdóttir chief physician og Jóhanna Sigurjónsdóttir consultant.

    Sjúkrahús Akraness: Björn Gunnarsson chief physician.

    Sjúkrahúsið á Akureyri: umsjón Oddur Ólafsson, chief physician. 

    All consulting physicians at Landspitali and Akureyri hospital will participate in theoretical and clinical teaching of medical students. Resident physicians in training also participate in teaching.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK514F
    Family Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    9
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    9 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    95% of the problems which people seek for within in the health care sector can be solved within primary care. Most of these problems are rarely seen or presented in the hospital setting. 

    Primary health care therefore relies on its own knowledge base, skills, attitudes, human resources and work facilities in order to carry out its tasks. 

    The most common health problems and other health care topics and work methods are discussed. The basics of clinical examination, problem-based medical history, clinical skills and attitudes in diagnosis and problem solving, health care work and teamwork will be taught. Students talk to and examine patients and present a diagnosis and treatment plan. They will participate in health protection activities, e.g. maternity care and infant supervision with doctors and nurses whenever possible. 

    Teaching: Theoretical learning takes place in lectures and group teaching in smaller workshops (group based learning, problem/case learning). The main components of the theoretical part focus on medical skills and attitudes. However, the latter goal, attitudes, is crucial for family medicine. Here is e.g. this means that the student aims to become an expert in the individual himself, and not in organs or a certain age, that the doctor uses time as a tool for diagnosing problems and acquires an overall view of the individual as a social being, part of a family, society and environment. 

    The theoretical part is then followed by a practical internship for 3 weeks at a health center in the capital area and 1 week at a health center abroad under the guidance of an experienced instructor. 

    Practical training at a health center focuses on the student acquiring certain clinical skills, such as in conversations with patients, appropriate solutions, or suturing wounds to name a few. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK515F
    Elective period
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    An organized elective period in medical studies is 4 weeks either in the autumn or spring semester of the 6th year and is 8 ECTS. The elective course is primarily intended to give the student the opportunity to broaden his or her horizons by choosing subjects or areas of interest that the student wants to learn more about. Selection is not limited to clinical medicine, but the student can choose to work on organized scientific research, take courses at other faculties of the University of Iceland or at universities in other countries. It is a condition that the content of the study is related to health sciences. If the Elective period is taken in the form of web studies the supervisor of the course sets out instructions on how such a study is evaluated, but the course must correspond to the number of hours behind 8 ECTS. For a clinical elective course, the instructors are responsible for presenting the goal description for each student. The goal description is made in close consultation with the student and the student takes care of returning it to the supervisor of the course on time.

    The supervising teacher decides whether the project and the goal description should be approved and whether the study meets the requirements of the Faculty of Medicine. In case of doubt, the supervising teacher consults with the director of teaching regarding this. It is desirable that students show initiative and draft themselves how their elective course is organized. If many students apply for the same projects or studies within the same specialties, they will be deducted.

    For those students who have not managed the project themselves, they should contact the supervising teacher who can aid in finding an appropriate rotation/course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Online learning
    Self-study
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK516F
    Practical clinical training
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is a practical clinical course designed to prepare medical students for work as doctors. This is a 6-week course and the time is spent in the same department. The student is under the guidance of a trainee with a specialist doctor with supervisor training as a sponsor. The aim is for continuity in the supervision and for the medical student to receive clinical training during the period.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK517F
    Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness IV and V
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    See LÆK107F and LÆK408F

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • LÆK613F
    Clinical toxicology
    Mandatory (required) course
    1
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is designed to give the students an overview of common poisonings presenting to hospitals and health care institutes and their treatment.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK614F
    Rehabilitation
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Restoring the functional abilities of patients with short- or longterm disabilities and handicaps following accidents, diseases and congenital defects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK615F
    Forensic Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The theory and practice of forensic medicine.

    Major themes: a) The death of humans b) Assaults and violence c) Suicide and accidental deaths d) Medicine and the law.

    Topics:

    • Introduction to forensic medicine
    • Death and post mortem changes
    • The medical death investigation
    • Writing the death certificate
    • Autopsy and other methods in forensic medicine
    • Deaths by natural causes
    • Sudden unexpected death in children
    • Identification
    • Blunt force trauma
    • Sharp force trauma
    • Head injuries
    • Application of force to the neck
    • Alcohol, drugs and death
    • Traffic accidents and other high energy trauma
    • Gunshot injuries
    • Clinical forensic medicine
    • Documentation, interpretation and timing of injury
    • Asphyxia
    • Traumatology of the neck
    • Hypo- and hyperthermia
    • Drowning
    • Heat inuries and carbon monoxide poisoning
    • Electrical injuries
    • Scene investigation and examination of the dead body
    • Illustrative cases
    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK616F
    Emergency Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Duration - 4 weeks.  

    In the 6th year the course in Emergency medicine is divided into two sections, two weeks each.  

    The earlier 2 week period consists of lectures and simulation training on the following topics: 

    • Lecture day on violence –  
    • identifying victims, documentation of injuries and providing an overview of available care and support for victims of violence  
    • 2 day course in advanced life support – ALS cource acccording to the ERC standard.  
    • 1 day course in basic airway management  
    • 1 day of mixed simulated cases 
    • Emergency Ultrasound - e-cource and one half day of hands-on training 

    The later 2 weeks consist of clinical training in the Emergency Department where medical students are trained in working up and treating  patients under the supervision and guidance of consultants and senior EM trainees.  

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK617F
    Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course in anesthesiology and intensive care is taught in the sixth year and contains a theoretical and clinical part. The goal of the course is that medical students receive solid knowledge in anesthesiology and intensive care.

    The goal of the clinical part is that medical students get experience in evaluating and preparing patients undergoing elective or urgent surgery and treating surgical patients and critically ill intensive care patients. The students will also gain experience in suggesting evaluation and plan treatment of these patients.

    Theoretical teaching:

    1. A week of lectures in September. The lectures will cover the basics of anesthesia and intensive care.
    2. Electronical lectures supporting Very BASIC book. Please see below for details on the Very BASIC course

    Clinical teaching:

    1. The students will spend two weeks at the department of anesthesia and intensive care, and will be assigned a daily task, either in the intensive care ward, operating theatre or preoperative center.
    2. The main this is on the basics of anesthesia and intensive care
      1. Clinical examination and evaluation of patients undergoing surgery.
      2. Training in maintaining airway patency using a bag-mask ventilation/oral airway, using laryngeal mask airway and finally the students should observe and attempt intubation, although that procedure is outside of the scope of the course.
      3. Evaluation of fluid balance and blood loss during and following surgical procedures and pain management after surgery.
      4. Evaluation and treatment critically ill and injured patients in the intensive care unit
      5. The following skills stations will be held
        1. Airway training
        2. Non-invasive and invasive ventilation
    • Resuscitation
    1. Students will follow one patient in the intensive care unit, they are instructed to choose an individual with a focused problem, or select a portion of the course of a critically ill patient.
    2. There is a 100% attendance requirement. Students who miss out a day should contact the professor to schedule how they can fulfill their attendance requirement.
    3. Students will take two calls, where they continue to work with the on call team from 15:30 - 22:00
    4. Syndrome maintain a log book during the clinical course

    The clinical teaching occurs in:

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús, Hringbraut: Martin Ingi Sigurðsson, professor, Sigurbergur Kárason assistant professor/chief physician og Theódór Skúli Sigurðsson consultant.

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús,í Fossvogi: Katrín Þormar consultant, Ólöf Viktorsdóttir chief physician og Jóhanna Sigurjónsdóttir consultant.

    Sjúkrahús Akraness: Björn Gunnarsson chief physician.

    Sjúkrahúsið á Akureyri: umsjón Oddur Ólafsson, chief physician.

     

    All consulting physicians at Landspitali and Akureyri hospital will participate in theoretical and clinical teaching of medical students. Resident physicians in training also participate in teaching.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK618F
    Family Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    9
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    9 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    95% of the problems which people seek for within in the health care sector can be solved within primary care. Most of these problems are rarely seen or presented in the hospital setting. 

    Primary health care therefore relies on its own knowledge base, skills, attitudes, human resources and work facilities in order to carry out its tasks. 

    The most common health problems and other health care topics and work methods are discussed. The basics of clinical examination, problem-based medical history, clinical skills and attitudes in diagnosis and problem solving, health care work and teamwork will be taught. Students talk to and examine patients and present a diagnosis and treatment plan. They will participate in health protection activities, e.g. maternity care and infant supervision with doctors and nurses whenever possible. 

    Teaching: Theoretical learning takes place in lectures and group teaching in smaller workshops (group based learning, problem/case learning). The main components of the theoretical part focus on medical skills and attitudes. However, the latter goal, attitudes, is crucial for family medicine. Here is e.g. this means that the student aims to become an expert in the individual himself, and not in organs or a certain age, that the doctor uses time as a tool for diagnosing problems and acquires an overall view of the individual as a social being, part of a family, society and environment. 

    The theoretical part is then followed by a practical internship for 3 weeks at a health center in the capital area and 1 week at a health center abroad under the guidance of an experienced instructor. 

    Practical training at a health center focuses on the student acquiring certain clinical skills, such as in conversations with patients, appropriate solutions, or suturing wounds to name a few. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK619F
    Elective period
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    An organized elective period in medical studies is 4 weeks either in the autumn or spring semester of the 6th year and is 8 ECTS. The elective course is primarily intended to give the student the opportunity to broaden his or her horizons by choosing subjects or areas of interest that the student wants to learn more about. Selection is not limited to clinical medicine, but the student can choose to work on organized scientific research, take courses at other faculties of the University of Iceland or at universities in other countries. It is a condition that the content of the study is related to health sciences. If the Elective period is taken in the form of web studies the supervisor of the course sets out instructions on how such a study is evaluated, but the course must correspond to the number of hours behind 8 ECTS. For a clinical elective course, the instructors are responsible for presenting the goal description for each student. The goal description is made in close consultation with the student and the student takes care of returning it to the supervisor of the course on time.

    The supervising teacher decides whether the project and the goal description should be approved and whether the study meets the requirements of the Faculty of Medicine. In case of doubt, the supervising teacher consults with the director of teaching regarding this. It is desirable that students show initiative and draft themselves how their elective course is organized. If many students apply for the same projects or studies within the same specialties, they will be deducted.

    For those students who have not managed the project themselves, they should contact the supervising teacher who can aid in finding an appropriate rotation/course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Online learning
    Self-study
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK620F
    Information technology in health sciences
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Healthcare workers need to use information technology in clinical work and in research. This course gives an overview of health informatics and its historical context.

    Two intertwined yet dissimilar aspects of health informatics are explored. On one hand the use of health informatics in clinical work is explored with an emphasis on students understanding how to identify good health informatics systems so they can become critical users of the systems they are expected to use in their work.

    On the other hand this course explores the use of information technology in research and students will work on a project where they have to design their own research project and create a database to manage their data.

    The goal of the course is that students will be able to better take advantage of information technology in clinical work as well as in research.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK622F
    Practical clinical training
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is a practical clinical course designed to prepare medical students for work as doctors. This is a 6-week course and the time is spent in the same department. The student is under the guidance of a trainee with a specialist doctor with supervisor training as a sponsor. The aim is for continuity in the supervision and for the medical student to receive clinical training during the period.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK610F
    Comprehensive Clinical Science Examination
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The final weeks of the semester are dedicated to preparation for the final clinical examination CCSE (Comprehensive Clinical Science Examination).

    In the beginning of the semester there is a meeting where the arrangement of the exam will be presented along with information about how best to prepare for the exam.

    For further information see National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) website.

    Students who wish to take USMLE Step 2 can get it evaluated instead of the CCSE exam with the approval of the Head of Education in the Medicine Faculty.

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Course taught second half of the semester
Third year
  • Whole year courses
  • LÆK202F
    Internal Medicine, theoretical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course in internal medicine is divided into two parts: a clinical part and a theoretical part, which are integrated both in content and timing. There will be two exams in internal medicine: a written exam and a clinical station exam. 

     

    Teaching in the theoretical part of the course consists of lectures according to the lecture schedule, discussion sessions related to the practical part of the course, and reading textbooks and journal articles in internal medicine. The main diseases covered by internal medicine and its subspecialties are discussed, with an emphasis on their prevalence, causes, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, disease course, diagnosis, and treatment. 

     

    The directors of the different subspecialities of internal medicine, that is hematology, endocrinology, rheumatology, cardiology, oncology, gastroenterology, nephrology, allergy and immunology, infectious diseases, pulmonary diseases and gerontology, have written study aims that include topics that the students should have good knowledge of (I) and also topics they should have moderate knowledge of (II). 

     

    The head of internal medicine is Einar Stefán Björnsson. The supervision of the program at Akureyri Hospital is managed by Associate Professor Gunnar Þór Gunnarsson. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK203F
    Internal Medicine, Clinical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Clinical examination in medicine, analysis of clinical information, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, treatment plan, and follow-up are emphasized. Students write a minimum number of case histories under the supervision of a physician. They take turns being on call. There are daily tutorials and clinical rounds. Full attendance is mandatory. Students follow their patients closely and discuss their work-up and treatment with their attending physician. In the 4th year lectures an emphasis is placed on common diseases and management problems.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK204F
    Surgery, theoretical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Not available yet.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK205F
    Surgery, clinical
    Mandatory (required) course
    13
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    13 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The practical education in general  surgery is based on clinical courses which are run simultaneously as the lectures in the two major hospitals in Reykjavík and in Akureyri. The students participate in the daily work of the departments and attend clinical conferences, rounds and other teaching activities. Clinical cases are presented and discussed individually on ward rounds and grand rounds. Full attendance is compulsory. Examination is according to ESCA at the end of each course in January and in May. The final score is calculated as 75% from the ESCA examination and 25% from the students "book-keeping". Students must pass both parts of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK206F
    Otorhinolaryngology
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nose, throat, head and neck. Introduction of ear examination, classification of hearing disorders, diseases of external ear, eustachian tube and middle ear. Acute chronic otitis media, mastoiditis, otosclerosis, hearing rehabilitation, hearing aids, tinnitus, vertigo, vestibular tests and diseases of inner ear. Diseases of salivary glands and oral diseases, facial paralysis, facial trauma, anatomy and function of the nose. Diagnosis of nasal disorders, rhinomanometry, allergic disorders of the nose and nasal cavity. Chronic nasal obstruction, sinusitis, epistaxis, diseases of the nasopharynx, pharynx and oesophagus. Function of the larynx, hoarseness, inflammations, laryngeal paralysis and carcinoma of hypopharynx and larynx, laser surgery, head and neck cancer, diagnosis of lump in the neck, surgery of the head and neck.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK207F
    Diagnostic Imaging - Radiology
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The physics of radiation, radiation protection, general concepts of medical imaging, imaging methods (x-rays, computed tomography, resonance, isotope studies and magnetic resonance imaging) and the use of contrast material will be discussed. General definitions in clinical radiology and radiological examination of the various organ systems are studied, as well as contrast media and contrast examination. Radiology of the nervous system, chest and abdomen, musculoskeletal system and vessels will be explored. Attention will also be paid to interventional radiology. 

    Practicals are undertaken at the department of Radiology in the National University Hospital and in Orkuhúsið.  

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK208F
    Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness IV
    Mandatory (required) course
    0
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme. The focus will be on communicational tools like the SBAR that contribute to patient saftey and efficiancy of teamwork. The course will be conducted over one day and will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
    Course taught second half of the semester
  • Fall
  • LÆK105F
    Clinical Biochemistry
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic applications of chemical, molecular and cellular concepts and techniques to the understanding and evaluation of human health and desease.

    Lectures: General principles and practice of clinical biochemistry as well as specific diseases and organ systems. Practical aspects regarding appropriate use of the clinical laboratory in medicine. Frontiers in molecular medicine. Problem-based learning. Visit to a clinical laboratory in the 2nd year of medical studies.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • Whole year courses
  • LÆK408F
    Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness V
    Mandatory (required) course
    0
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme and LÆK107F in the forth year of the Medical Education programme. The focus will be on improving communicational skills in subjects regarding the doctor patient relationship regarding the main courses taught in the fifth year of Medical studies. The course will be conducted over one day or as several shorter teaching sessions all pending how this will best fit in to the teaching programme. The teaching will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Fall
  • LÆK301F
    Obstetrics and Gynaecology
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Teaching in obstetrics and gynecology mostly takes place at the Women's Department of Landspítali – the University Hospital of Iceland. The teaching consists of practical training and varied lessons: lectures, case studies, skills training, simulations, discussion sessions and project work. Medical students accompany doctors and midwives in the department in their daily work and are introduced to specialized care in our field, e.g. antenatal care, maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive medicine and cancer screening. The course is taught over 7 weeks for a quarter of 5th year medical students at a time.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK302F
    Pediatrics
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Medical students are divided into 4 groups for the practical training and participate in clinical work at the Children's Hospital at the University Hospital. Lectures are given in pediatrics in each term. The aim of the course is to make the medical student able to obtain medical history and carry out physical examination. Furthermore, the students will learn to lay out medical workup and give suggestions regarding therapy. The aim of the theoretical part of the course is to give the student a sound knowledge of pediatrics. Further information can be found on the Children's Hospital homepage.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK303F
    Medical Genetics
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of the course is for the students to gain insight into methods of molecular and genomic medicine. The main emphasis is on the practical aspects of clinical genetics, genetic diseases, congenital disorders, and genetics of common traits. Lectures and problem based learning methods are applied in the teaching. This includes structure and functions of genes. Gene mapping and bioinformatics. Biochemical and genetic basis of chosen genetic disorders. Chromosomes and chromosome disorders. Various stages of screening, including prenatal, biochemical, phenotype and population based programs for genetic disorders. Basic principles of multi factorial and polygenic traits, with emphasis on congenital abnormalities and selected common traits including cardiovascular disorders and cancer. Special interest will be paid to genetic disorders and genomic research in Iceland. Use of genomic and clinical databases as a tool in molecular medicine and medical genetics. Treatment options for genetic disorders and molecular genomic manipulation in rare and common disorders. Clinical genetic counselling approaches, and ethical, social and family implication will be given consideration.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK304F
    Psychiatry
    Mandatory (required) course
    14
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    14 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the course is to teach students about psychiatric diseases, their prevalence, etiology, course, prognosis, treatment and prevention. The teaching is provided in the form of lectures, seminars, problem-based learning and practical training at the Departments of Psychiatry of the National University Hospital as described in a detailed curriculum presented to students at the beginning of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK305F
    Neurology
    Mandatory (required) course
    10
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures on the principal symtoms and categories of neurological diseases. Clinical rotations: Four weeks clinical rotation Neurology Departments at the National University Hospital. Practical examinations are held at the end of the clinical rotation.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK306F
    Ophthalmology
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course covers basic ophthalmology. Lectures are on the following: Anatomy and physiology of the eye; history and examination; optics, refractive disorders and glasses; ocular trauma; retinal diseases; strabismus and children's eye diseases; lens and cataracts; the eye and diseases in other parts of the body; eyelids and orbita; age-related macular degeneration; glaucoma; neuro-ophthalmology; diabetic retinopathy; blepharitis; conjunctivitis; red eye (diff. diagnosis and treatment); corneal diseases.

    Each student spends about one obligatory week at the department of ophthalmology, Eiríksgata 37.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Spring 2
  • LÆK401F
    Obstetrics and Gynaecology
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Teaching in obstetrics and gynecology mostly takes place at the Women's Department of Landspítali – the University Hospital of Iceland. The teaching consists of practical training and varied lessons: lectures, case studies, skills training, simulations, discussion sessions and project work. Medical students accompany doctors and midwives in the department in their daily work and are introduced to specialized care in our field, e.g. antenatal care, maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive medicine and cancer screening. The course is taught over 7 weeks for a quarter of 5th year medical students at a time.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK402F
    Pediatrics
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Medical students are divided into 4 groups for the practical training and participate in clinical work at the Children's Hospital at the University Hospital. Lectures are given in pediatrics in each term. The aim of the course is to make the medical student able to obtain medical history and carry out physical examination. Furthermore, the students will learn to lay out medical workup and give suggestions regarding therapy. The aim of the theoretical part of the course is to give the student a sound knowledge of pediatrics. Further information can be found on the Children's Hospital homepage.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK403F
    Medical Genetics
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of the course is for the students to gain insight into methods of molecular and genomic medicine. The main emphasis is on the practical aspects of clinical genetics, genetic diseases, congenital disorders, and genetics of common traits. Lectures and problem based learning methods are applied in the teaching. This includes structure and functions of genes. Gene mapping and bioinformatics. Biochemical and genetic basis of chosen genetic disorders. Chromosomes and chromosome disorders. Various stages of screening, including prenatal, biochemical, phenotype and population based programs for genetic disorders. Basic principles of multi factorial and polygenic traits, with emphasis on congenital abnormalities and selected common traits including cardiovascular disorders and cancer. Special interest will be paid to genetic disorders and genomic research in Iceland. Use of genomic and clinical databases as a tool in molecular medicine and medical genetics. Treatment options for genetic disorders and molecular genomic manipulation in rare and common disorders. Clinical genetic counselling approaches, and ethical, social and family implication will be given consideration.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK404F
    Psychiatry
    Mandatory (required) course
    14
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    14 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the course is to teach students about psychiatric diseases, their prevalence, etiology, course, prognosis, treatment and prevention. The teaching is provided in the form of lectures, seminars, problem-based learning and practical training at the Departments of Psychiatry of the National University Hospital as described in a detailed curriculum presented to students at the beginning of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK405F
    Neurology
    Mandatory (required) course
    10
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures on the principal symtoms and categories of neurological diseases. Clinical rotations: Four weeks clinical rotation Neurology Departments at the National University Hospital. Practical examinations are held at the end of the clinical rotation.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK406F
    Ophthalmology
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course covers basic ophthalmology. Lectures are on the following: Anatomy and physiology of the eye; history and examination; optics, refractive disorders and glasses; ocular trauma; retinal diseases; strabismus and children's eye diseases; lens and cataracts; the eye and diseases in other parts of the body; eyelids and orbita; age-related macular degeneration; glaucoma; neuro-ophthalmology; diabetic retinopathy; blepharitis; conjunctivitis; red eye (diff. diagnosis and treatment); corneal diseases.

    Each student spends about one obligatory week at the department of ophthalmology, Eiríksgata 37.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK407F
    Dermatology and sexually transmitted diseases
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Structure and function of the skin. Pathology of the most common skin diseases. Most common topical drugs and their usage. Most common venereal diseases will be covered. All student should attend practical sessions where patients will be demonstrated.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • Whole year courses
  • LÆK621F
    Introduction to Clinical medicine/communicational skills VI
    Mandatory (required) course
    1
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a continuation of courses and material covered in communicational skills and pshycology courses during 1st -3rd year of the BS Medical Education programme, LÆK208F in the forth year and LÆK408F in the fifth year of the Medical Education programme. The focus will be on improving communicational skills in subjects regarding the doctor patient relationship when conducting a family meeting or having to deliver bad news. The course will be conducted over one day or as several shorter teaching sessions all pending how this will best fit in to the teaching programme.The teaching will be small group teaching with simulation training and case-based senario discussions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK623F
    Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective
    Elective course
    4
    Free elective course within the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course was initiated by Faculty leaders in the Education Working Group of Nordic Medical Schools and received funding from the Joint Committee of the Nordic Medical Research Councils ((https://nos-m.org/ ). 33 experts from all the Nordic countries participate in the course, that is led by Saedis Saevarsdottir from the University of Iceland and Sisse Ostrowski from the University of Copenhagen.

    The technical revolution has generated large amounts of data in healthcare and research, and a rapidly increasing knowledge about factors of importance for the individual’s health. This holds great potential to support a change from the one-size-fits-all paradigm to personalised or precision medicine, to guide and thereby improve each health decision of expected benefit for the patient. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has contributed to a great public and political awareness of the importance of personalised medicine, where the influence of host factors like age, sex, obesity, smoking, co-morbidities etc. confer increased risk of serious COVID-19 illness. It is expected that in the near future, a more systematic and data-driven approach for prediction and risk stratification of COVID-19 patients and many other patient groups, will increase and improve due to better understanding of disease pathology, including the influence of genetic variability and biomarkers on disease risk and outcome. The Nordic countries have unique welfare systems with general access to healthcare, and longitudinal nationwide health databases and biobanks. This infrastructure combined with unique person identifiers creates an optimal setting for personalised medicine development, and the Nordic model of research, translation, care and education can serve as a forefront example for the rest of the world.

    The course in Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective will introduce, describe, define and discuss the concept of personalised medicine from the aspect of the patient, health-care and the infrastructure available to generate a learning environment that is integrated with everyday care of patients. The course also covers communication of risk and the ethical, legal and social aspects of personalised medicine and presents examples where personalised medicine approach is already used in routine care.

    Module 1 (5 videos, 6 readings) introduces the concept and methods of personalised medicine, including terminology and definitions, with emphasis on how the infrastructure of the Nordic countries facilitates developing and implementing personalised medicine in collaboration. Examples of applied personalised medicine in the Nordic countries and unmet needs in common diseases, where personalised medicine can be the way forward, will be described and discussed.

    Module 2 (6 videos, 8 readings) describes what kind of information is useful to tailor the care of individuals, with focus on the potential of health data that is already collected, and the benefits of using such “real-life” data compared to clinical guidelines based on evidence from randomised clinical trials, but also the importance for data “cleaning” to increase the usefulness of such data. Data analysis is key to unfold the potential of collected health data and the module introduces data science as a tool to apply data-driven clinical decision making and thus personalised medicine.

    Module 3 (5 videos, 3 readings) describes definitions and identification of biomarkers and how these can be applied in precision medicine, as this part of personalised medicine is often referred to today. Genetics have a fundamental role in personalised medicine, and the students are expected to have a basic understanding of terminology, definitions and methodology, while the focus here is on its use and potential in personalised medicine (other courses can be taken to gain that knowledge basis if needed). A similar approach is taken for the rapidly developing field of ‘omics’ (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics etc), since this field could well fill up a course on its own. Thus, the module describes analyses and interpretation of biomarker, genetic and omics data and their implications for care. In addition it describes how open data sources are used for analyses and interpretation of such data.

    Module 4 (4 videos, 4 readings) describes what “evidence” is and the challenges and opportunities and shift in the paradigm that data-driven personalised medicine has introduced. Furthermore, evidence-based medicine including different trial designs and novel trial designs will be described and discussed. The challenge for personalised medicine and novel trial designs to generate good enough evidence for clinical implementation is discussed from a clinical and legal perspective. Finally, the innovation pipeline from research to clinical practice is also described and discussed.

    Module 5 (5 videos, 7 readings) introduces, describes and discusses risk – a cornerstone in personalised medicine. How is risk calculated, communicated, inferred and interpreted? Furthermore, patient-centered care – a complement to personalised medicine – and the pro’s and con’s of screening for diseases will be described and discussed.Finally, the role of the media for the hype and horror sometimes introduced by novel healthcare technologies will be discussed.

    Module 6 (6 videos, 3 readings) discusses in more detail the ethical and social aspects of personalised medicine in research, clinic and society as well as its impact on health economy and prioritisation. The legislation and regulation of personalised medicine in the Nordic countries will be described and discussed. Furthermore, the industry interest in and collaboration on health data and biologic material will be described and discussed focusing on challenges, possibilities and perspectives. Finally, the module concludes on future perspectives for personalised medicine in the Nordic countries.

    For a more detailed description, see www.coursera.org Personalised medicine from a Nordic perspective.

    Online learning
    Self-study
    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • LÆK501F
    Preventive Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Inheritance together with various environmental and lifestyle factors affect variations of health and well-being in the general population. Health professionals are, due to their knowledge and access to patients, in a unique position to excercise health promotion and prevention in their clinical work. This course gives an overview of the opportunities and methods that medical professionals can use for prevention and health promotion in our society. The aim is to provide the coming generations of physicians knowledge of evidence based methods for health promotion. Students will get training in reviewing the literature of the various avenues of health promotion and prevention.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK504F
    Clinical toxicology
    Mandatory (required) course
    1
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is designed to give the students an overview of common poisonings presenting to hospitals and health care institutes and their treatment.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK505F
    Rehabilitation
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Restoring the functional abilities of patients with short- or longterm disabilities and handicaps following accidents, diseases and congenital defects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK507F
    Management and quality issues
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Two weeks of specialised teaching as a final emphasis dealing with certain practical problems, problem solving and a course medical practice in general.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK508F
    Cancer epidemiology, diagnosis and clinical management
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Individual diseases are not covered in lectures. The focus is on a general approach and the theoretical background of oncology.

    Problem based learning: Students are divided into groups, read through a case and lead discussion. Students then choose one topic that they study and report to the group the following day.

    Interview techniques: Eight to ten students are in each group, and the interviews last 4-5 hours. The course is conducted in such a way that each medical student is given a role both as a physician and as a patient or a relative of a patient. Problems such as informing a patient that they have cancer, discussing palliative approaches and giving bad news are addressed. All interviews are recorded and then discussed collectively in a constructive way.

    Clinical training: Medical students attend the outpatient clinics of hematology and oncology and become familiar with the outpatient work with a specialist in hematology or oncology.  Each student will also go to the Hospice ward and the radiotherapy department.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK511F
    Forensic Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The theory and practice of forensic medicine.

    Major themes: a) The death of humans b) Assaults and violence c) Suicide and accidental deaths d) Medicine and the law.

    Topics:

    • Introduction to forensic medicine
    • Death and post mortem changes
    • The medical death investigation
    • Writing the death certificate
    • Autopsy and other methods in forensic medicine
    • Deaths by natural causes
    • Sudden unexpected death in children
    • Identification
    • Blunt force trauma
    • Sharp force trauma
    • Head injuries
    • Application of force to the neck
    • Alcohol, drugs and death
    • Traffic accidents and other high energy trauma
    • Gunshot injuries
    • Clinical forensic medicine
    • Documentation, interpretation and timing of injury
    • Asphyxia
    • Traumatology of the neck
    • Hypo- and hyperthermia
    • Drowning
    • Heat inuries and carbon monoxide poisoning
    • Electrical injuries
    • Scene investigation and examination of the dead body
    • Illustrative cases
    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK512F
    Emergency Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Duration - 4 weeks.  

    In the 6th year the course in Emergency medicine is divided into two sections, two weeks each.  

    The earlier 2 week period consists of lectures and simulation training on the following topics: 

    • Lecture day on violence –  
    • identifying victims, documentation of injuries and providing an overview of available care and support for victims of violence  
    • 2 day course in advanced life support – ALS cource acccording to the ERC standard.  
    • 1 day course in basic airway management  
    • 1 day of mixed simulated cases 
    • Emergency Ultrasound - e-cource and one half day of hands-on training 

    The later 2 weeks consist of clinical training in the Emergency Department where medical students are trained in working up and treating  patients under the supervision and guidance of consultants and senior EM trainees.  

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK513F
    Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course in anesthesiology and intensive care is taught in the sixth year and contains a theoretical and clinical part. The goal of the course is that medical students receive solid knowledge in anesthesiology and intensive care.

    The goal of the clinical part is that medical students get experience in evaluating and preparing patients undergoing elective or urgent surgery and treating surgical patients and critically ill intensive care patients. The students will also gain experience in suggesting evaluation and plan treatment of these patients.

    Theoretical teaching:

    1. A week of lectures in September. The lectures will cover the basics of anesthesia and intensive care.
    2. Electronical lectures supporting Very BASIC book. Please see below for details on the Very BASIC course

    Clinical teaching:

    1. The students will spend two weeks at the department of anesthesia and intensive care, and will be assigned a daily task, either in the intensive care ward, operating theatre or preoperative center.
    2. The main this is on the basics of anesthesia and intensive care
      1. Clinical examination and evaluation of patients undergoing surgery.
      2. Training in maintaining airway patency using a bag-mask ventilation/oral airway, using laryngeal mask airway and finally the students should observe and attempt intubation, although that procedure is outside of the scope of the course.
      3. Evaluation of fluid balance and blood loss during and following surgical procedures and pain management after surgery.
      4. Evaluation and treatment critically ill and injured patients in the intensive care unit
      5. The following skills stations will be held
        1. Airway training
        2. Non-invasive and invasive ventilation
    • Resuscitation
    1. Students will follow one patient in the intensive care unit, they are instructed to choose an individual with a focused problem, or select a portion of the course of a critically ill patient.
    2. There is a 100% attendance requirement. Students who miss out a day should contact the professor to schedule how they can fulfill their attendance requirement.
    3. Students will take two calls, where they continue to work with the on call team from 15:30 - 22:00
    4. Syndrome maintain a log book during the clinical course

    The clinical teaching occurs in:

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús, Hringbraut: Martin Ingi Sigurðsson, professor, Sigurbergur Kárason assistant professor/chief physician og Theódór Skúli Sigurðsson consultant.

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús,í Fossvogi: Katrín Þormar consultant, Ólöf Viktorsdóttir chief physician og Jóhanna Sigurjónsdóttir consultant.

    Sjúkrahús Akraness: Björn Gunnarsson chief physician.

    Sjúkrahúsið á Akureyri: umsjón Oddur Ólafsson, chief physician. 

    All consulting physicians at Landspitali and Akureyri hospital will participate in theoretical and clinical teaching of medical students. Resident physicians in training also participate in teaching.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK514F
    Family Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    9
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    9 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    95% of the problems which people seek for within in the health care sector can be solved within primary care. Most of these problems are rarely seen or presented in the hospital setting. 

    Primary health care therefore relies on its own knowledge base, skills, attitudes, human resources and work facilities in order to carry out its tasks. 

    The most common health problems and other health care topics and work methods are discussed. The basics of clinical examination, problem-based medical history, clinical skills and attitudes in diagnosis and problem solving, health care work and teamwork will be taught. Students talk to and examine patients and present a diagnosis and treatment plan. They will participate in health protection activities, e.g. maternity care and infant supervision with doctors and nurses whenever possible. 

    Teaching: Theoretical learning takes place in lectures and group teaching in smaller workshops (group based learning, problem/case learning). The main components of the theoretical part focus on medical skills and attitudes. However, the latter goal, attitudes, is crucial for family medicine. Here is e.g. this means that the student aims to become an expert in the individual himself, and not in organs or a certain age, that the doctor uses time as a tool for diagnosing problems and acquires an overall view of the individual as a social being, part of a family, society and environment. 

    The theoretical part is then followed by a practical internship for 3 weeks at a health center in the capital area and 1 week at a health center abroad under the guidance of an experienced instructor. 

    Practical training at a health center focuses on the student acquiring certain clinical skills, such as in conversations with patients, appropriate solutions, or suturing wounds to name a few. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK515F
    Elective period
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    An organized elective period in medical studies is 4 weeks either in the autumn or spring semester of the 6th year and is 8 ECTS. The elective course is primarily intended to give the student the opportunity to broaden his or her horizons by choosing subjects or areas of interest that the student wants to learn more about. Selection is not limited to clinical medicine, but the student can choose to work on organized scientific research, take courses at other faculties of the University of Iceland or at universities in other countries. It is a condition that the content of the study is related to health sciences. If the Elective period is taken in the form of web studies the supervisor of the course sets out instructions on how such a study is evaluated, but the course must correspond to the number of hours behind 8 ECTS. For a clinical elective course, the instructors are responsible for presenting the goal description for each student. The goal description is made in close consultation with the student and the student takes care of returning it to the supervisor of the course on time.

    The supervising teacher decides whether the project and the goal description should be approved and whether the study meets the requirements of the Faculty of Medicine. In case of doubt, the supervising teacher consults with the director of teaching regarding this. It is desirable that students show initiative and draft themselves how their elective course is organized. If many students apply for the same projects or studies within the same specialties, they will be deducted.

    For those students who have not managed the project themselves, they should contact the supervising teacher who can aid in finding an appropriate rotation/course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Online learning
    Self-study
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK516F
    Practical clinical training
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is a practical clinical course designed to prepare medical students for work as doctors. This is a 6-week course and the time is spent in the same department. The student is under the guidance of a trainee with a specialist doctor with supervisor training as a sponsor. The aim is for continuity in the supervision and for the medical student to receive clinical training during the period.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK517F
    Clinical Method: The doctor, his patient and the illness IV and V
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    See LÆK107F and LÆK408F

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • LÆK613F
    Clinical toxicology
    Mandatory (required) course
    1
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is designed to give the students an overview of common poisonings presenting to hospitals and health care institutes and their treatment.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK614F
    Rehabilitation
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Restoring the functional abilities of patients with short- or longterm disabilities and handicaps following accidents, diseases and congenital defects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK615F
    Forensic Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The theory and practice of forensic medicine.

    Major themes: a) The death of humans b) Assaults and violence c) Suicide and accidental deaths d) Medicine and the law.

    Topics:

    • Introduction to forensic medicine
    • Death and post mortem changes
    • The medical death investigation
    • Writing the death certificate
    • Autopsy and other methods in forensic medicine
    • Deaths by natural causes
    • Sudden unexpected death in children
    • Identification
    • Blunt force trauma
    • Sharp force trauma
    • Head injuries
    • Application of force to the neck
    • Alcohol, drugs and death
    • Traffic accidents and other high energy trauma
    • Gunshot injuries
    • Clinical forensic medicine
    • Documentation, interpretation and timing of injury
    • Asphyxia
    • Traumatology of the neck
    • Hypo- and hyperthermia
    • Drowning
    • Heat inuries and carbon monoxide poisoning
    • Electrical injuries
    • Scene investigation and examination of the dead body
    • Illustrative cases
    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK616F
    Emergency Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Duration - 4 weeks.  

    In the 6th year the course in Emergency medicine is divided into two sections, two weeks each.  

    The earlier 2 week period consists of lectures and simulation training on the following topics: 

    • Lecture day on violence –  
    • identifying victims, documentation of injuries and providing an overview of available care and support for victims of violence  
    • 2 day course in advanced life support – ALS cource acccording to the ERC standard.  
    • 1 day course in basic airway management  
    • 1 day of mixed simulated cases 
    • Emergency Ultrasound - e-cource and one half day of hands-on training 

    The later 2 weeks consist of clinical training in the Emergency Department where medical students are trained in working up and treating  patients under the supervision and guidance of consultants and senior EM trainees.  

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK617F
    Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
    Mandatory (required) course
    5
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course in anesthesiology and intensive care is taught in the sixth year and contains a theoretical and clinical part. The goal of the course is that medical students receive solid knowledge in anesthesiology and intensive care.

    The goal of the clinical part is that medical students get experience in evaluating and preparing patients undergoing elective or urgent surgery and treating surgical patients and critically ill intensive care patients. The students will also gain experience in suggesting evaluation and plan treatment of these patients.

    Theoretical teaching:

    1. A week of lectures in September. The lectures will cover the basics of anesthesia and intensive care.
    2. Electronical lectures supporting Very BASIC book. Please see below for details on the Very BASIC course

    Clinical teaching:

    1. The students will spend two weeks at the department of anesthesia and intensive care, and will be assigned a daily task, either in the intensive care ward, operating theatre or preoperative center.
    2. The main this is on the basics of anesthesia and intensive care
      1. Clinical examination and evaluation of patients undergoing surgery.
      2. Training in maintaining airway patency using a bag-mask ventilation/oral airway, using laryngeal mask airway and finally the students should observe and attempt intubation, although that procedure is outside of the scope of the course.
      3. Evaluation of fluid balance and blood loss during and following surgical procedures and pain management after surgery.
      4. Evaluation and treatment critically ill and injured patients in the intensive care unit
      5. The following skills stations will be held
        1. Airway training
        2. Non-invasive and invasive ventilation
    • Resuscitation
    1. Students will follow one patient in the intensive care unit, they are instructed to choose an individual with a focused problem, or select a portion of the course of a critically ill patient.
    2. There is a 100% attendance requirement. Students who miss out a day should contact the professor to schedule how they can fulfill their attendance requirement.
    3. Students will take two calls, where they continue to work with the on call team from 15:30 - 22:00
    4. Syndrome maintain a log book during the clinical course

    The clinical teaching occurs in:

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús, Hringbraut: Martin Ingi Sigurðsson, professor, Sigurbergur Kárason assistant professor/chief physician og Theódór Skúli Sigurðsson consultant.

    Landspítala Háskólasjúkrahús,í Fossvogi: Katrín Þormar consultant, Ólöf Viktorsdóttir chief physician og Jóhanna Sigurjónsdóttir consultant.

    Sjúkrahús Akraness: Björn Gunnarsson chief physician.

    Sjúkrahúsið á Akureyri: umsjón Oddur Ólafsson, chief physician.

     

    All consulting physicians at Landspitali and Akureyri hospital will participate in theoretical and clinical teaching of medical students. Resident physicians in training also participate in teaching.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK618F
    Family Medicine
    Mandatory (required) course
    9
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    9 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    95% of the problems which people seek for within in the health care sector can be solved within primary care. Most of these problems are rarely seen or presented in the hospital setting. 

    Primary health care therefore relies on its own knowledge base, skills, attitudes, human resources and work facilities in order to carry out its tasks. 

    The most common health problems and other health care topics and work methods are discussed. The basics of clinical examination, problem-based medical history, clinical skills and attitudes in diagnosis and problem solving, health care work and teamwork will be taught. Students talk to and examine patients and present a diagnosis and treatment plan. They will participate in health protection activities, e.g. maternity care and infant supervision with doctors and nurses whenever possible. 

    Teaching: Theoretical learning takes place in lectures and group teaching in smaller workshops (group based learning, problem/case learning). The main components of the theoretical part focus on medical skills and attitudes. However, the latter goal, attitudes, is crucial for family medicine. Here is e.g. this means that the student aims to become an expert in the individual himself, and not in organs or a certain age, that the doctor uses time as a tool for diagnosing problems and acquires an overall view of the individual as a social being, part of a family, society and environment. 

    The theoretical part is then followed by a practical internship for 3 weeks at a health center in the capital area and 1 week at a health center abroad under the guidance of an experienced instructor. 

    Practical training at a health center focuses on the student acquiring certain clinical skills, such as in conversations with patients, appropriate solutions, or suturing wounds to name a few. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK619F
    Elective period
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    An organized elective period in medical studies is 4 weeks either in the autumn or spring semester of the 6th year and is 8 ECTS. The elective course is primarily intended to give the student the opportunity to broaden his or her horizons by choosing subjects or areas of interest that the student wants to learn more about. Selection is not limited to clinical medicine, but the student can choose to work on organized scientific research, take courses at other faculties of the University of Iceland or at universities in other countries. It is a condition that the content of the study is related to health sciences. If the Elective period is taken in the form of web studies the supervisor of the course sets out instructions on how such a study is evaluated, but the course must correspond to the number of hours behind 8 ECTS. For a clinical elective course, the instructors are responsible for presenting the goal description for each student. The goal description is made in close consultation with the student and the student takes care of returning it to the supervisor of the course on time.

    The supervising teacher decides whether the project and the goal description should be approved and whether the study meets the requirements of the Faculty of Medicine. In case of doubt, the supervising teacher consults with the director of teaching regarding this. It is desirable that students show initiative and draft themselves how their elective course is organized. If many students apply for the same projects or studies within the same specialties, they will be deducted.

    For those students who have not managed the project themselves, they should contact the supervising teacher who can aid in finding an appropriate rotation/course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Online learning
    Self-study
    Prerequisites
  • LÆK620F
    Information technology in health sciences
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Healthcare workers need to use information technology in clinical work and in research. This course gives an overview of health informatics and its historical context.

    Two intertwined yet dissimilar aspects of health informatics are explored. On one hand the use of health informatics in clinical work is explored with an emphasis on students understanding how to identify good health informatics systems so they can become critical users of the systems they are expected to use in their work.

    On the other hand this course explores the use of information technology in research and students will work on a project where they have to design their own research project and create a database to manage their data.

    The goal of the course is that students will be able to better take advantage of information technology in clinical work as well as in research.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LÆK622F
    Practical clinical training
    Mandatory (required) course
    12
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    12 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is a practical clinical course designed to prepare medical students for work as doctors. This is a 6-week course and the time is spent in the same department. The student is under the guidance of a trainee with a specialist doctor with supervisor training as a sponsor. The aim is for continuity in the supervision and for the medical student to receive clinical training during the period.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÆK610F
    Comprehensive Clinical Science Examination
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The final weeks of the semester are dedicated to preparation for the final clinical examination CCSE (Comprehensive Clinical Science Examination).

    In the beginning of the semester there is a meeting where the arrangement of the exam will be presented along with information about how best to prepare for the exam.

    For further information see National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) website.

    Students who wish to take USMLE Step 2 can get it evaluated instead of the CCSE exam with the approval of the Head of Education in the Medicine Faculty.

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Course taught second half of the semester
Additional information

The University of Iceland collaborates with over 400 universities worldwide. This provides a unique opportunity to pursue part of your studies at an international university thus gaining added experience and fresh insight into your field of study.

Students generally have the opportunity to join an exchange programme, internship, or summer courses. However, exchanges are always subject to faculty approval.

Students have the opportunity to have courses evaluated as part of their studies at the University of Iceland, so their stay does not have to affect the duration of their studies.

Completing a Candidate's degree in medicine qualifies you to work as a medical intern. To be eligible for a medical licence, medical interns must complete 12 months of vocational training. The professional licence is issued by the Directorate of Health.

Completing this programme, followed by a year as a medical intern, allows you to apply for various specialist medical programmes as well as other graduate programmes, i.e. Master’s or doctoral programmes.

The organisation for medical students organises a busy social calendar. It also arranges student exchanges in cooperation with international medical student organisations, helps medical students find temporary work within the healthcare system, and provides sex education in upper secondary schools through the Ástráður project.

Students' comments
Arnar Snær Ágústsson
I've always wanted to be a doctor, driven by the desire to help others. Medicine is demanding and requires significant dedication, but it's incredibly rewarding. The field offers diverse opportunities, from general practice to specialised surgery and research. Medicine is challenging, but the impact you can make makes it worthwhile.
""
Medical studies are demanding yet enjoyable, structured in modules for focused learning. Despite the workload, peer support and class camaraderie are crucial. The programme offers an excellent social life and various extracurricular opportunities.
""
Medical studies are long, with six years of undergraduate study followed by specialisation, totalling at least a decade of training. The first three years focus on theoretical knowledge, while the last three involve practical training at the National University Hospital. The programmme is demanding, time-consuming, and challenging, but also enjoyable, diverse, and rewarding, fostering lifelong friendships.
""
The first three years of medical studies cover basic subjects like anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, and pathology. Each year focuses on different areas: anatomy in the first year, physiology and biochemistry in the second, and pharmacology and pathology in the third.
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Faculty of Medicine
Weekdays 9 am - 3 pm
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Students can use the Service Desk as the point of access for all services. Students can drop in at the University Centre or use the WebChat on this page.

University of Iceland, Læknagarður

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