Some engineers study fossils to learn about the prehistoric processes and functions that were present in the Earth's history. By understanding how prehistoric creatures lived and became extinct, engineers acquire new ideas for how to design ways to study global climate change and species extinction.
MLT didactic courses are typically offered three to four days per week between the hours of 9:00am and 4:00pm; however, there may be some exceptions. The practicum portion of the program requires each student to devote 40 hours per week, offsite, at a clinical affiliate.
In 1980, the program became six years, with students spending two years (including two summers) at Penn State and four years at the medical school. Currently, students must complete the seven-year program, three years (no required summers) at Penn State, followed by four years at the medical school. Due to changes in the 2015 MCAT exam, the PMM program became a seven-year only program.