Page Menu

Horizon Phase Absence Policy

The Horizons Phase of the Vista Curriculum starts in early April after the Exploration Phase and continues unti graduation. It consists of the following curriculum pieces:

Non-Elective Rotation Limits

Intersessions: A 3-week, cohort-based curriculuym focused on advanced clinical skills and application of and assessment in topics germane to medicine and the human experience.
Transition to Residency: A 2-week, specialty-specific intensive curriculum to suppor the transition to residency practice.
Non-Electives Courses: Acting Internships, Clinical Problem Solver (ECPS or C3PS)
Electives Courses: on campus or away options available

How to Request Absences from Non-Elective Rotations/Courses

Up to 3 days of planned absence time from Non-Elective Rotations/Courses may be taken during the Horizons Phase. Students can use 1/2 day absences.
Requests must be submitted at least 30 days in advance. Requests made with less than 30 days' notice may be denied other than for unusual circumstances or medical need.
Requests must be submitted using the Planned Absence Request Form.
Requests will be reviewed and approved by the Office of STudent Affairs after consulting the key dates document provided by rotation coordinators/rotation leaders and with the student's previous absence requests.

How to Request Absences from Elective Rotations

Approval of Elective absences is at the discretion of the Elective Leader and outside the OSA approval process
Absences from Electives may affect receipt of course credit
The student must submit a written request directly to the Electives Leader
Students should follow the policies of the host institution during any Away Electives.

Additional Information for All Horizons Phase Absences

Time away from any rotation may impact curriculum or the ability to fully evaluate a student's performance.
Absence from the care team has a significant impact not only on the student experience but also on patient care and the function of the team.
Students should not enroll in a Required Horizons Acting Internship during times when planned ansences may be anticipated, such as absences for residency interviews or personal/family events.
Students must also be mindful of the scheduled didactic/simulation days for ECPS & C3PS as these are key dates.

All absences in the preclinical and clinical years, whether planned or unplanned, will be processed through the Office of Student Affairs for tracking purposes. UMass Chan Absence Policy website: https://www.umassmed.edu/studentaffairs/policies/absence-policy/

MARCH 13 2026 | cjd