Interprofessional Education

Interprofessional Education (IPE) is a collaborative approach to health care training that brings students from different health professions together to learn with, from, and about one another. At the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), IPE is more than a teaching model—it is a foundational approach that supports patient-centered care, teamwork, and lifelong learning.

Through shared learning experiences and team-based activities, students develop the communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills necessary to address the complexities of today's health care environment.

Our purpose

Interprofessional Education equips health science professionals to function effectively as members of an interprofessional community to advance the well-being of our patients. It promotes an integrated learning environment across the health science professions that unites disciplines, promotes teamwork, nurtures respect, and strengthens research to promote a healthier Mississippi.

Education at the intersection of collaboration

At UMMC, IPE is intentionally woven throughout the curricula of all health science professional programs, ensuring that students gain meaningful, structured experience in team-based care. Required IPE learning experiences introduce students to the core competencies of collaboration, including communication, roles and responsibilities, teamwork and shared values, while reinforcing how these skills directly impact patient outcomes.

In addition to curricular experiences, co-curricular opportunities provide students with flexible, innovative ways to apply these skills in real-world and peer-led settings. Together, these approaches create a comprehensive learning environment that prepares graduates to contribute effectively within interdisciplinary health care teams. By integrating both structured and experiential learning, UMMC ensures that students not only meet core educational objectives but also develop the confidence, adaptability and respect needed to thrive in collaborative health care environments.

For more information on interprofessional education, contact the Office of Student Affairs. UMMC faculty, staff, and students may find detailed information on IPE programs, events and opportunities on the UMMC Intranet.