Nexus Learning

Nexus Learning offers a vibrant mix of non-credit courses designed especially for first- and second-year medical students at the Icahn School of Medicine. These classes go beyond the required curriculum, giving students the chance to deepen their medical knowledge, explore the humanities and sciences, and gain valuable new skills and perspectives to enhance their journey as future physicians.

Whether you're diving into a subject you're passionate about or trying something completely new, Nexus Learning is your opportunity to grow intellectually and connect with peers and faculty who share your interests.

Though not for academic credit, students are highly encouraged to take at least one Nexus course. Completion of a course (based on each course director’s minimum participation requirements) can be documented in your student portfolio. No grades, no academic pressure—just a meaningful opportunity to explore new ideas and enrich your medical education in a supportive environment.

Nexus FAQs for Participants

How do I create a new Nexus course?

Start by reaching out to Dr. Vasundhara Singh to discuss your idea. If approved, you’ll draft a syllabus and submit the course via Formstack for inclusion in the upcoming semester catalog.

Are Nexus courses in person or online?

Nexus courses can be:

  • In-person

  • On Zoom

  • Or hybrid

Your course listing will indicate the format.

I'm an M1 or M2—how do I register?

Just sign up through Empower. No approval needed. Once you're registered, you’ll be added to the course’s Blackboard Org, where your course director will post all the details. 📌 [Click here for registration instructions]

Can I take two Nexus courses that overlap in time?

Yes—with some conditions:

  • You need permission from both course directors.

  • One course will need to add you manually to the roster.

  • You may have to make up missed content asynchronously.

I’m not an M1 or M2, but I want to take a Nexus course—can I?

Yes. Students, faculty, housestaff, or staff across the Mount Sinai Health System can participate if the course coordinator and faculty approve. ✅ Only M1s and M2s can register through Empower. 📩 Others should email the course director/coordinator to be manually added to the Blackboard Org.

Will a Nexus course show up on my transcript or MSPE?

No. Since Nexus courses are not for credit, they don’t appear on transcripts or the MSPE. 🎓 However, if you complete a course and meet its participation requirements, you can and should include it on your CV or ERAS application.

📧 Who to Contact

Nexus FAQs for Course Coordinators and Faculty

I’m interested in creating a new Nexus course. What’s the first step?

Start by reaching out to Dr. Singh to discuss your course idea. She will provide final review and approval. After that, you’ll draft a syllabus and complete the Formstack for the corresponding semester, including all catalogue information.

I’m a student who wants to create a course. Do I need a faculty mentor?

Yes. While many Nexus courses are student-led, every course must have a faculty mentor. If you don’t have someone in mind, Dr. Singh can help connect you.

Can Nexus courses be held in-person or over Zoom?

Yes, courses may be in-person or on Zoom. Due to limited on-campus space, priority for room reservations goes to required courses. Hybrid formats are also an option.

How do I reserve space on Annenberg 12 or 13?

Use this form: Annenberg 12 and 13 Floor Room Request Form

Is there a faculty guide for Nexus course requirements?

There is no formal guide. Nexus Learning gives course leaders a great deal of flexibility. After meeting with Dr. Singh, you’ll set the course expectations—such as attendance, participation, or assignments. Each course is unique, and many are fully coordinated and taught by students with faculty acting as mentors. Final approval still comes from Dr. Singh.

Can individuals outside of medical school (e.g. nurses, master’s students, physical therapists) take Nexus courses?

Most courses are designed for M1 and M2 students, but anyone from the Mount Sinai Health System—students, staff, housestaff, or faculty—may participate at the discretion of the course coordinator and/or faculty. Only M1s and M2s can register through Empower. Since Nexus is not for credit, formal registration isn’t required.

If participants outside M1/M2 can’t register through Empower, how can they join?

Coordinators can manually add participants to Blackboard if they have a Sinai email and Bb login. If Blackboard isn’t being used, coordinators can keep a manual roster and communicate by email.

PreviousModule, Course, and Clerkship RepresentativesNextElectives

Last updated