Where do I spend my first two years of Medical School? 
Students in the UC Merced San Joaquin Valley - PRIME will spend their first two years of medical school at the UC Davis School of Medicine in Sacramento, CA.

Where do I spend my last two years of Medical School?
For years 3 and 4, students will do their clinical rotations and electives in the San Joaquin Valley. Students will graduate from the UC Davis School of Medicine.

What housing accommodations will be made for years 3 and 4 in the Valley?
The SJV PRIME program will secure housing in collaboration with preceptor sites in the San Joaquin Valley.

Will I take the same classes as the non-PRIME students?
Yes, UC Merced San Joaquin Valley - PRIME students will be taking classes with their non-PRIME peers in the first two years.  Some parts of the curriculum will be unique, though:

• UC Davis Summer Pre-Matriculation Program
• Community Engagement Program - a shared curriculum between UC Davis School of Medicine, UC Merced, UCSF Fresno and community agencies facilitating dialog on diversity, quality and population health. 2011 SJV PRIME matriculates will participate in the UC Davis community engagement project, Niños Sanos, Familia Sana, a multi-faceted intervention to treat and prevent childhood obesity among Mexican-origin children living in California’s Central Valley.
• Early longitudinal clinical experiences at local community clinics. 
• PRIME Core Seminar Series - regularly scheduled noon seminars held in conjunction with the Rural PRIME Program.
• Clinical clerkships in the Valley during Medical School years 3 and 4.
• Optional fifth year of study to pursue a master's degree.
• A formal mentorship program.

Will I be required to complete a master’s degree?
Not currently.  Students will not be required to complete a master’s degree. However, students do have the option to enhance their leadership skills and education by completing a master’s degree after their third year of medical school. Students will work individually with their advisor to decide if a master’s degree is the right choice for them. 

How do I apply to U.C. Merced San Joaquin Valley-PRIME?
The UC Merced San Joaquin Valley Program in Medical Education (SJV PRIME) will accept up to six students per year. Applicants must meet UC Davis School of Medicine admissions requirements, as well as the SJV PRIME criteria. SJV PRIME criteria: Applicants should possess significant knowledge of and experience in the San Joaquin Valley, including a familiarity with underserved populations, public health issues pertinent to the region, and a desire to practice in the San Joaquin Valley. This track is for students who are committed to ensuring high quality medical care to improve health for populations, communities, and individuals in the San Joaquin Valley.